A supplement made from whole tomatoes may reduce fat accumulation in the liver and slow inflammatory processes associated with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease. This conclusion was reached by a group of Italian researchers from the University of Brescia. The findings were published in the Journal of Translational Medicine (JTM).

The researchers focused on studying the effects of an antioxidant-enriched tomato supplement on liver cells. It was found to lower levels of lipids that accumulate in cells, including triglycerides and cholesterol esters, according to Planet Today. The concentration of substances linked to cell damage and inflammation was also reduced.

In addition, the supplement suppressed the activity of proteins involved in disease progression. These include signaling molecules associated with inflammation, cell death, and fibrosis—processes that can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

The effect is not due to a single compound but rather a complex of substances found in tomatoes, including lycopene and polyphenols. Together, they act on multiple disease pathways simultaneously and are more effective in combination than individually.