Tomatoes And Serum Lycopene Protect Against Congestive Heart Failure

Nelson Wood, DMD, DSc, MS Plentiful tomato intake, rich in the nutrient lycopene reduces the risk of congestive heart failure (CHF) in individuals with periodontitis. Lycopene is a potent antioxidant and one of the most prevalent carotenoid nutrients in the Western diet and in human blood serum. It is abundant in tomatoes and other red fruits. An epidemiology study was performed that examined data from more than 30,000 men and women enrolled in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III). The study investigators examined dietary and blood laboratory data of NHANES III participants with periodontitis in relation to their "self-reported" medical history of CHF. In individuals with periodontitis, monthly dietary intake of fewer than nine tomatoes raised the risk of CHF by 2-3.5 times, and a monthly dietary intake of less than three tomatoes increased risk considerably more. Above-average serum lycopene levels also significantly lowered CHF risk. Elevated serum lycopene levels were also associated with reduced levels of C-reactive protein, an inflammatory marker that is associated with cardiovascular disease risk. The study investigators proposed that periodontitis is connected to the threat of CHF, and that high monthly tomato intake may possibly reduce this risk. While lycopene may assist in CHF risk reduction, perhaps by lowering levels of C-reactive protein, other beneficial nutrients found in tomatoes, for example vitamins C and A, folate, potassium, and bioflavonoids, may also contribute to tomatoes’ cardiovascular protective benefits in individuals with periodontitis. Wood, N., Johnson, R. The relationship between tomato intake and congestive heart failure risk in periodontitis subjects. J. Clin. Perio (2004) 31:574- 580.