Food for men
Tomatoes benefits for men: lycopene, prostate and sperm health
Tomatoes are a staple in South African cooking, from chakalaka to stews. Their red pigment, lycopene, has been widely studied for men. Here are the evidence-based tomatoes benefits for men.
In short: Tomatoes are the main dietary source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Population studies link higher lycopene intake with lower prostate cancer risk, although trials are not conclusive. A UK trial found a lycopene supplement improved sperm shape and swimming speed in healthy young men. Cooking tomatoes with a little oil increases lycopene absorption.
What is lycopene?
Lycopene is a red carotenoid antioxidant found mainly in tomatoes, plus watermelon, pink guava and red grapefruit. It concentrates in the prostate and testes.
Benefits for men
Prostate health
Large population studies have linked eating more tomato products with a lower risk of prostate cancer. However, clinical trials have not proven that lycopene prevents or treats it. Tomatoes are a healthy part of a prostate-friendly diet. See enlarged prostate natural remedies.
Sperm quality
In a randomised trial at the University of Sheffield, healthy young men who took 14 mg of lycopene a day (similar to two tablespoons of tomato paste) for 12 weeks had better sperm shape and faster-swimming sperm than men on placebo. See how to increase sperm motility.
Heart and blood vessels
Lycopene and potassium support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol, protecting the arteries that supply erections.
Cooked vs raw tomatoes
Heating tomatoes breaks down cell walls and releases lycopene. Adding a little olive oil increases absorption because lycopene is fat-soluble. Tomato paste, passata and cooked sauces are rich sources.
Easy ways to eat more tomatoes
- Use tomato paste in stews, curries and soups.
- Make chakalaka with tomatoes, onions and peppers. See onion benefits for men sexually.
- Roast cherry tomatoes with olive oil.
- Add fresh tomatoes to salads with avocado. See avocado benefits for men.
Who should be careful?
Tomatoes are acidic and can trigger reflux in some men. Tomato sauces can be high in salt and sugar, so choose plain products.
The bigger picture
Tomatoes are an easy, affordable food that supports prostate, sperm and heart health. Pair them with regular exercise and a plant-rich diet. A naturopath can help you build a personalised natural plan.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Do you have pain, swelling, redness or itching in the genital area?
- Have you noticed discharge, sores, a lump or blood in your urine or semen?
- Do you have a fever or feel generally unwell?
- Has this lasted more than a few days, or keep coming back?
- Is it affecting your sex life, sleep or confidence?
A yes to questions two or three, or sudden severe pain, means you should see an appropriately registered medical professional promptly. For recurring or lifestyle-related concerns, a naturopath can help with natural support alongside medical care.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Are tomatoes good for the prostate?
Population studies link tomato intake with lower prostate cancer risk, although trials are not conclusive.
Does lycopene improve sperm?
A UK trial found 14 mg of lycopene a day improved sperm shape and swimming speed in healthy young men.
Are cooked tomatoes healthier than raw?
Cooking releases more lycopene, especially with a little oil, but both are healthy.
How much lycopene should a man get?
Around 10 to 15 mg a day, roughly two tablespoons of tomato paste, is easy to reach with cooked tomato products.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Get personalised, natural support from a naturopath. Walk in at our Sandton practice, or book a remote consultation if you live outside Gauteng.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
