PASTA SAUCE IS A WINNER!

Foods rich in tomatoes contain a powerful antioxidant known as lycopene which can lower the risk of prostate cancer, reports the Associated Press. In a recent study, re-searchers analyzed the food choices and prostate cancer histories of more than 47,000 men and found that those who ate at least two meals a week containing tomato products lowered their risk of prostate cancer by 24 to 36 percent. Tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato juice, salsa and ketchup were among the tomato-based products included in the dietary questionnaires in the study.

Dr. Edward Giovannucci of Brigham and Women¹s Hospital and the Harvard School of Public Health said that pasta sauce was the most popular choice of foods and also seemed to give the most protection. He added that cooking raw tomatoes may break down the cell walls of the fruit and, thus, allow the body to absorb more of the lycopene. It is important to also maintain a well-rounded diet that includes fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes, and avoids excess fat. It is nice to know that we can continue to enjoy our favorite Italian dishes, all the while combating cancer.