Drinking red juice could help unblock arteries with high cholesterol

Experts have claimed that a glass of tomato juice in the morning could be beneficial in fighting high cholesterol. It could also help ward off other chronic diseases thanks to one powerful element.

This glass might sound like an acquired taste compared to other fruit juices that are more popular, like orange and apple. But, this slightly tangy beverage might be worth it for the sake of your heart health.

The juice costs £1.35 for a long-life pack in Tesco, which works out at about 14p per glass. You could also get this drink from other supermarekts - like Asda, Sainsbury's and Morrisons for similar prices.

Experts at the University of Illinois claimed that the "health hero" drink owes its powerful benefits to its lycopene levels. Not only does this give tomatoes their naturally red look, it is also a powerful antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage.

These unstable molecules - known as free radicals - can contribute to ageing and various health issues, so countering this with some healthy foods packed with lycopene may help. When free radicals outnumber or overwhelm the body's antioxidants, a state called oxidative stress can occur, which has been linked to various chronic diseases and the signs of ageing.

Dr. Edward Giovannucci, a nutrition and epidemiology professor at the Harvard School of Public Health, said: "The shape of the lycopene molecule makes it very effective in being able to quench free radicals. We don't really understand it entirely yet, but lycopene may have specific properties that protect the cell in a way other antioxidants may not."

This protection goes beyond keeping signs of ageing at bay. It may also help reduce inflammation, which supports reducing high cholesterol. A 2014 study examined the effects of tomato juice consumption on high cholesterol levels and inflammation.

The researchers found that those who drank the juice at least four times a week for two months experienced a reduction in LDL (bad) levels. Some even saw a "slight increase in HDL" - the good kind of cholesterol.

The NHS website states that high cholesterol can block your blood vessels, making it more likely for a person to suffer heart problems or a stroke. The cause of high cholesterol can vary from person to person.

Genetics may play a part - with anyone who is over 50, born male or of South Asian/sub-Saharan African origin at increased risk. It can also run in families but is often a result of lifestyle choices - eating fatty food, not exercising enough, being overweight, smoking and drinking alcohol.

Alongside any prescribed medication, diet makes a major difference in naturally reducing harmful cholesterol. The NHS suggests how to do this on its website here.

This article is not intended to go against medical advice. You should always listen to your doctor and make sure any major changes have been thoroughly discussed beforehand to avoid serious complications.