Kohlmeier is lead author of a study appearing in this month's American Journal of Epidemiology. Antioxidants are compounds which scientists believe help 'clean up' the potentially damaging byproducts of the body's oxidation processes, part of how the human body burns fuel. The link between tomato sauce and healthier hearts echoes previous research, as reported by Reuters earlier this year, that suggested lycopene in cooked tomatoes might help fight various cancers. During Kohlmeier's study, researchers examined fat samples drawn from two sets of European men, averaging 54 years of age. Kohlmeier explains that that's why sauces supply the best tomato-based antioxidant punch.
Ketchup contains lycopene as well.
She says the next step is investigating the relationship between antioxidants and the body's ability to cope with air pollution.