Your Dentist Might Start Recommending Tomatoes

Tomato, Tomahto: It’s common knowledge that tomatoes are good for us. But the idea that they could protect your gums from all things might sound like a stretch. Yet that’s exactly what new research, published in The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging, is saying.

The Study: Researchers analyzed health data from over 1,200 Americans ages 65 to 79. They noticed that older adults who met recommended intake levels of lycopene (the antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red color) had roughly one-third the odds of severe gum disease compared to those who fell short. Unfortunately, though, more than three-quarters of participants weren’t getting enough lycopene. The association held even after accounting for age, sex, race, smoking habits, and education level.

The Takeaway: You can’t go wrong with eating tomatoes. Whether or not they directly protect your gums, they’re loaded with vitamin C for skin health, potassium for heart health, and fiber for digestion. (And who could say no to a Caprese Sandwich?)

Keep in Mind: This study identified a link between lycopene and gum health, but it can’t prove that eating more tomatoes will prevent periodontitis. The researchers themselves call for long-term clinical trials to confirm whether lycopene actually reduces risk.