Is Tomato Good for Shortness of Breath? Understanding the Lycopene Connection

December 12, 2025 •

4 min read

According to research published in the European Respiratory Journal, consuming tomatoes was linked to a slower rate of lung function decline. So, is tomato good for shortness of breath? The answer is complex, but it's clear their rich antioxidant content plays a supportive role in respiratory health.

Quick Summary

Tomatoes, packed with the antioxidant lycopene, may help manage shortness of breath by reducing inflammation and supporting overall lung health in people with conditions like asthma and COPD. They are part of a broader anti-inflammatory diet, not a cure for breathing difficulties.

Key Points

Lycopene-Rich: Tomatoes are a primary source of lycopene, a potent antioxidant that combats oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs.
Inflammation Reduction: Studies suggest that consuming tomatoes and tomato products can help reduce airway inflammation, benefiting people with asthma and COPD.
Enhanced Bioavailability: Cooking tomatoes significantly increases the bioavailability of lycopene, making products like sauce and paste highly effective sources.
Part of a Broader Strategy: The benefits of tomatoes are maximized when combined with an overall diet rich in antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats, and low in processed foods and sodium.
Supportive, Not Curative: Diet is a complementary strategy for managing respiratory symptoms, and tomatoes should not be considered a treatment or cure for shortness of breath.

Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, can stem from various causes, including chronic respiratory diseases like COPD and asthma. While diet alone cannot cure these conditions, certain foods can support lung function and manage symptoms. Tomatoes are often highlighted for their high concentration of the antioxidant lycopene, which has shown promise in supporting lung health.

The Lycopene Powerhouse

Lycopene is a carotenoid antioxidant responsible for the bright red color in tomatoes and other fruits. Antioxidants are vital for protecting the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecules generated by processes like inflammation, illness, and exposure to pollutants or cigarette smoke. This protection is particularly important for lung tissue, which is constantly exposed to environmental stressors.

Lycopene's Role in Lung Health

Several studies suggest that a higher intake of lycopene is linked to better respiratory function. Its primary mechanism of action is its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In chronic respiratory diseases, persistent inflammation and oxidative stress can lead to airway narrowing and damage, making breathing difficult. By neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation, lycopene helps protect lung tissue and may alleviate some respiratory symptoms.

Scientific Evidence Supporting Tomato's Benefits

Research has explored the connection between tomato consumption and respiratory health, with several key findings:

COPD: A study in animal models found that lycopene could protect against cigarette smoke-induced emphysema by improving antioxidant defense systems. Other human studies suggest that consuming tomato products can improve lung function in people with COPD.
Asthma: Research indicates that the anti-inflammatory effects of lycopene can help reduce airway inflammation in people with asthma. A 2019 study showed that a diet rich in tomatoes was associated with a lower prevalence of poorly controlled asthma.
General Lung Function: A long-term study cited in the search results found that regular tomato consumption was associated with a slower decline in lung function over time, a benefit particularly pronounced in ex-smokers.

It's important to note that many studies focus on the effects of lycopene, which is most bioavailable when tomatoes are cooked and processed, as in sauces and paste. This cooking process helps break down the tomato's cell walls, releasing the lycopene.

How to Incorporate Tomatoes into a Lung-Healthy Diet

To maximize the benefits of tomatoes for respiratory health, focus on regular consumption as part of a balanced diet. Here are some simple ways to include them:

Tomato Sauce and Paste: Use in pasta dishes, stews, and soups. Cooking increases lycopene bioavailability.
Roast or Grill: Roasted cherry tomatoes or grilled tomato slices make a flavorful and healthy addition to meals.
Fresh: Add raw tomato slices to salads and sandwiches for a boost of Vitamin C and other nutrients.
Soups: A homemade tomato soup is a soothing and nutrient-rich option.
Snacks: Enjoy fresh cherry tomatoes with hummus or as part of a vegetable platter.

A Broader Look: Diet and Breathing Issues

Integrating tomatoes is one piece of a larger dietary strategy for managing breathing difficulties. A holistic approach involves focusing on anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense foods and avoiding those that can worsen symptoms.

The Role of Other Nutrients

Antioxidants (Vitamin C & E): Found in berries, citrus fruits, nuts, and seeds, these further combat oxidative stress.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Present in fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, they are known for their anti-inflammatory effects.
Fiber: High-fiber foods like whole grains, beans, and lentils are linked to better lung function.
Magnesium and Potassium: These minerals, found in green leafy vegetables and tomatoes, support muscle function, including the respiratory muscles.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, helps keep mucus thin and easier to clear from the airways.

Foods to Limit or Avoid

Processed Meats: Nitrates used for preservation can contribute to lung inflammation.
High Sodium Foods: Excessive salt intake can lead to fluid retention, which may increase shortness of breath.
Fried and Greasy Foods: These can cause bloating and discomfort, putting pressure on the diaphragm and making breathing harder.
Gas-Causing Foods: For some, foods like beans, cabbage, and carbonated drinks may cause bloating and make breathing more difficult.
Sulfites: Found in dried fruits, wine, and pickled foods, these can trigger asthma symptoms in some people.

Comparison Table: Cooked vs. Raw Tomatoes for Lycopene


Feature	Cooked Tomatoes (e.g., sauce, paste)	Raw Tomatoes (e.g., fresh slices)
Lycopene Bioavailability	Significantly higher due to heat breaking down cell walls.	Lower, as lycopene is more trapped within plant cell walls.
Antioxidant Content	Still retains powerful antioxidant properties.	Rich in Vitamin C, which is heat-sensitive and can be reduced by cooking.
Digestibility	Often easier to digest for some individuals.	Fiber content is fully intact, which benefits digestion but can cause bloating for sensitive individuals.
Culinary Use	Ideal for sauces, soups, stews, and casseroles.	Perfect for salads, sandwiches, and fresh snacks.

Conclusion

While a tomato is not a cure for shortness of breath, its rich content of the antioxidant lycopene makes it a valuable component of a lung-healthy diet. By reducing inflammation and combating oxidative stress, tomatoes and tomato products offer a supportive role, especially for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD. Remember that the benefits are maximized within a broader dietary context, emphasizing whole, anti-inflammatory foods while limiting processed and high-sodium items. Always consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized advice, especially if you have an underlying respiratory condition.

For more in-depth scientific literature on lycopene's effects on lung conditions, see the research available on the National Institutes of Health website.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, eating tomatoes does not provide instant relief from shortness of breath. Its benefits are related to long-term effects on reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which support overall lung health over time.

For maximizing lycopene intake, cooked tomatoes are more beneficial. The heat from cooking breaks down cell walls, making lycopene more easily absorbed by the body. However, raw tomatoes are still a great source of other nutrients like Vitamin C.

Some studies suggest that obtaining carotenoids like lycopene from whole foods is more effective than from supplements, likely due to the complex interaction with other nutrients present in the food. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking supplements.

Beyond tomatoes, a lung-healthy diet includes berries, leafy greens, fatty fish (rich in omega-3s), nuts, seeds, and whole grains. These foods provide a range of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support lung function.

Yes, it is often recommended to limit processed meats, high-sodium foods, and fried foods, which can increase inflammation and fluid retention. Also, foods that cause gas and bloating may put pressure on the diaphragm and worsen breathing difficulties.

For COPD, a balanced diet with proper hydration is crucial. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce stomach fullness and ease breathing. Prioritizing protein and healthy fats over excessive simple carbohydrates can also help manage metabolism and breathing effort.

Yes, being overweight can put extra pressure on the lungs and diaphragm, which makes breathing more difficult and can worsen respiratory symptoms. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is a key strategy for managing breathing issues.