Scientists at Ohio State University found that eating tomatoes has a positive effect on gut microbiota. The study was published in the journal Microbiology Spectrum.
The two-week study was done on pigs, whose digestive tract is similar to ours. The scientists wanted to see how certain microorganisms affect the digestive system and, through it, overall health. The results showed several changes in the gut microbiota. Microbial diversity increased, and the ratio of Bacteroidetes to Firmicutes rose, which was good for the animals’ well-being.
The scientists now plan long-term human studies to understand the complex relationship between specific foods and the makeup of gut microbes. Over time, the findings could lead to specific dietary recommendations.
Tomatoes make up about 22% of the vegetables people eat. Eating them is already known to lower the risk of several diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular disease. Thanks to lycopene, vitamin C and other antioxidants, tomatoes can lift mood. And tomatoes enriched with zeaxanthin may help prevent age-related macular degeneration.
