PIZZA BELIEVED TO HELP PREVENT CANCER

MELVILLE, NEW YORK (Monday, July 28, 2003) - Italian scientists have recently learned that eating one or more pizzas a week can dramatically reduce the incidence of some types of cancer.

A study of 8,000 Italians by a Milan pharmacology center found that people who eat pizza on a regular basis are up to 59 percent less likely to contract various types of cancer, including that of the esophagus and the colon. The study supports earlier findings by a 6-year Harvard study in 1995, which found that foods laden with cooked tomatoes, such as pizza and spaghetti sauce, significantly reduced the threat of prostate cancer.

Scientists believe that lycopene — an antioxidant found abundantly in tomatoes and tomato products — reduces the threat of several kinds of cancers and heart diseases. Research shows that high intake of lycopene-rich vegetables (in conjunction with exercise and a moderate diet) are linked to lower rates of cancer. Other research shows that lycopene helps fight prostate and breast cancer, male infertility, and osteoperosis.

"We knew that tomato sauce could offer protection against certain tumors," said Silvano Gallus, a scientist leading the research, "but we did not expect pizza as a complete meal to offer such protective powers."

"The role of nutrition cannot be overstated," said Dr. Frederick Khachik, senior research scientist and adjunct professor, University of Maryland, at a 2000 symposium of international researchers studying dietary ways to fight disease. "These antioxidants are abundant in tomatoes and tomato-based products and can provide additional protection against oxidative cell damage, which may result in the development of certain forms of prostate cancer."

"These findings only confirm what the Italian diet - emphasizing fresh, homemade food and quality ingredients - is known for," said Jerry Sbarro, president of Sbarro Franchising and Licensing. "The Sbarro menu is made up entirely of these items, reflecting the best of Mediterranean cuisine."

View all Sbarro The Italian Eatery Press Releases

This article has been read 338 times.

Printer Friendly