Tomato Juices for Dietary Health Impact
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Eating a diet rich in tomatoes has been associated with decreased risk for a variety of diseases. Tomatoes contain red-colored lycopene (one type of pigment in the class of pigments called carotenoids), which has been associated with the decreased risk of disease in those consuming tomato products; however, tomatoes also contain flavonoids, which may also have health promoting effects. The Tangerine tomato, a unique tomato variety, contains lycopene in a different form that in red tomatoes and this contributes to their characteristic orange color. This "orange lycopene" is more similar to the most common form of lycopene found in the blood and tissue of people who eat a tomato-rich diet, and may be more easily absorbed by the body. The objectives of this study are to determine if carotenoids and flavonoids from Tangerine tomatoes are more easily absorbed by the body than red tomatoes, and to examine if eating Tangerine versus red tomatoes impacts markers of inflammation (response to harmful substances by the body).
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you stop taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (like Aspirin, Advil, Tylenol, Aleve) for 72 hours before each day-long visit.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Red tomato juice and Tangerine tomato juice for dietary health impact?
Is tomato juice safe for human consumption?
Tomato juice is generally considered safe for human consumption and is a good source of nutrients like antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It contains lycopene, which is linked to health benefits, and studies have shown that it can increase lycopene levels in the blood without reported safety concerns.15678
How does tomato juice as a treatment differ from other dietary health treatments?
Tomato juice is unique because it is a rich source of antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin E, and it provides essential minerals such as potassium and copper. The tangerine tomato variety, in particular, contains a more bioavailable form of lycopene, which may offer superior health benefits compared to traditional red tomatoes.158910
Research Team
Steven J Schwartz, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
Ohio State University
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults aged 18-70 with a BMI between 18.5 and 30, normal cholesterol (≤200 mg/dL), and triglycerides (≤200mg/dL). Participants should not be anemic, pregnant, or planning pregnancy during the study. They must not have metabolic diseases like diabetes, malabsorption disorders, liver/kidney issues, autoimmune disorders, allergies to tomatoes, recent blood donations or take certain anti-inflammatory meds.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants consume meals containing Tangerine or red tomato juice to assess carotenoid and flavonoid absorption
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Red tomato juice
- Tangerine tomato juice
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Ohio State University
Lead Sponsor