A study from Ohio State University found that a specially formulated tomato-soy drink may help reduce markers of chronic inflammation in adults with obesity. The researchers discovered that participants who drank the beverage daily for four weeks experienced significant reductions in three proteins linked to systemic inflammation compared with those who consumed standard tomato juice.

How the Study Worked

The study included 12 adults with obesity and lasted four weeks. The specially formulated drink was made using tomatoes bred to contain elevated levels of lycopene, an antioxidant responsible for tomatoes’ red color, and was fortified with soy isoflavones, naturally occurring plant compounds found in soybeans. Participants consumed two 6-ounce servings of the tomato-soy beverage each day for four weeks.

Experts say the findings are promising but should be interpreted cautiously because of the size and scope of the research. Registered dietitian Jamie Lee McIntyre, who was not involved in the study, noted that the beverage used in the research contained concentrated amounts of lycopene and soy isoflavones that consumers would not necessarily be able to replicate with regular tomato products.

Implications of the Study

The study highlights the potential role of food-based interventions in managing inflammation. However, additional research involving larger groups of people will be needed to confirm the findings. McIntyre said consumers should avoid focusing on a single “anti-inflammatory” food or drink as a solution and instead prioritize an overall healthy eating pattern.

Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.