Researchers at the Rowett Research Institute in Aberdeen, Scotland, have found that tomatoes may hold the key to anti-thrombotic substances. The researchers say the yellow gelatinous substance surrounding tomato seeds can prevent the clotting of platelets in the blood, thereby eliminating dangerous blood clots. Experiments on a small group of volunteers showed that the gelatinous substance from just four tomatoes could reduce platelet activity by 72% without causing stomach bleeding.
The researchers believe this gelatinous substance may point the way to finding an anti-platelet therapy to replace aspirin. Aspirin is widely used in anti-thrombotic treatment, but it can cause stomach upset and bleeding in patients.
The research report states that tomatoes are the best source of anti-platelet chemicals, with strawberries, melons, and grapes also containing this substance.