There also appeared to be a link with a high tomato diet and lower incidences of pancreatic, colo-rectal, esophageal, oral, breast, and cervical cancers. Eating fresh tomatoes didn't appear to be better than eating processed tomato products, such as ketchup, pasta sauces, soup, and salsa. Cooking and processing did not seem to diminish the benefits. The authors of the study warned, however, that many of these processed items also contain fats and sugars that are unhealthy when eaten in excess. So, if you have ideas about trying Pizza as an Anti-Cancer Diet, you're going to have to leave off the Mozzarella and Pepperoni.
Antioxidants work against the process of oxidation-the robbing of electrons from substances.
If unblocked or left uncontrolled, oxidation can lead to cellular aging, degeneration, arthritis, heart disease, cancer, and other illnesses. Antioxidants in the body react readily with oxygen breakdown products and free radicals, and neutralize them before they can damage the body. Plant antioxidants include Gingko biloba and garlic. When antioxidants are taken in combination, the effect is stronger than when they are used individually. These antigens are also called agglutinogens and pertain to the blood cells' ability to agglutinate, or clump together.