The sources of radiation are everywhere, not only from power plants and nuclear research centers. These include microwave ovens, cell phones, computers, and television: almost every electronic device today releases a certain amount. Meanwhile, cancer patients who are undergoing chemotherapy, feel the full brunt of its negative effects.
However, there may be something that can help limit these effects - and surprisingly, it is a fruit which can be found in almost every kitchen pantry.
In a study headed by Dr. Ruth Edge from the University of Manchester, along with her colleagues, Professor George Truscott from Keele University and Professor Fritz Boehm and Christian Witt from Berlin, it was found that the humble tomato has some properties which may combat radiation. This is due to its concentrated amounts of lycopene, a red plant pigment, which has also been shown to have positive effects on heart health. The study was conducted at the University of Manchester's Dalton Cumbrian Facility, part of the university's Dalton Research Institute.
Chemotherapy has always been used to treat tumors and various cancers, but its side effects offset most of its benefits. It has been known to cause nausea, vomiting, and a host of other negative effects after each treatment. The possibility of a dietary factor which may limit these effects have been studied - and tomatoes, which are rich in lycopene, are up for it.
The results of the study concluded that lycopene provides effective protection against gamma radiation, thus preventing you from being a gigantic, green superhero. Jokes aside, cooking tomatoes in oil may further help the body take in lycopene, helping cancer sufferers not feel horrible after every chemotherapy session.
Apart from tomatoes, the institute is planning to look at other carotenoids and other mixtures to determine if their effects can be used to curb the side effects of radiation exposure. It will also study the effects of other sources of radiation, most notably the facility's particle accelerator.
