Consuming tomatoes daily could potentially lower the risk of developing fatty liver disease, according to a recent study. The research, published in the journal Nutrients, investigated the effects of tomato consumption on individuals with the condition.
Fatty liver disease, which is not caused by alcohol consumption, affects approximately one-third of adults in the UK. It is often associated with other health issues such as obesity, high cholesterol, and type-2 diabetes. In some cases, the disease can progress to cause inflammation, scarring, and potentially liver failure.
The study involved 79 adults diagnosed with fatty liver disease and a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or below. Researchers from the National Institute of Gastroenterology in Italy divided participants into two groups. One group consumed 200 grams of raw tomatoes, equivalent to about one large tomato, along with 50 grams of tomato sauce daily for six weeks. The second group followed a diet devoid of tomatoes.
After the six-week period, liver fat levels were measured using specialized scans. Both groups showed a reduction in liver fat. However, the group that incorporated tomatoes into their daily diet experienced a more significant decrease. Their liver fat levels dropped by approximately 11 percent from the initial measurement, compared to a 6 percent reduction in the control group.
Despite the observed reduction in liver fat, the study noted that daily tomato consumption did not lead to significant improvements in liver stiffness, fibrosis scores, liver enzymes, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, or overall body composition. The researchers have suggested that the anti-inflammatory nutrients found in tomatoes may be responsible for the observed reduction in liver fat, although further investigation is needed to confirm the exact mechanisms.