Tomato juice could 'save smokers'

Although the effects have only been seen on mice, scientists believe that tomato juice could help protect smokers against lung disease.

Emphysema is a chronic, irreversible disease of the lungs that prevents the lungs from working properly causing breathlessness and wheezing. Emphysema is predominantly seen in smokers.

The study conducted showed that mixing tomato juice into mice's drinking water completely prevented them from suffering emphysema triggered by tobacco smoke.

Tomatoes contain lycopene, whose certain antioxidant’s benefits have already been proven. This study also shows that lycopene prevents free radicals from tobacco smoke to damage the lungs. Other tomato ingredients are also believed to play an important part in protecting the lungs.

Further tests will show if the same benefits apply to humans.