A new study conducted by the researchers of Newcastle University and Manchester University has revealed that eating five tomatoes everyday could help protect against sunburn and premature ageing.

For the study, researchers examined the skin of 20 people, half of whom were given five tablespoons (55g) of standard tomato paste, the equivalent of five or six cooked tomatoes, with 10g of olive oil. The other half received just olive oil.

It was found that the people who had eaten the paste had 33 percent more protection against sunburn as compared to those who just received olive oil.

According to the researchers, tomatoes contain an antioxidant called lycopene, which protect against ultraviolet rays.

Dr. Colin Holden of the British Association of Dermatologists said, "While the protection offered by lycopene is low, this research suggests that a diet containing high levels of antioxidant rich tomatoes could provide an extra tool in sun protection".

"You don't have to eat an excessive amount of tomatoes to experience the effect if you are already eating a tomato-based diet with plenty of things like spaghetti and pizza toppings,” he added.

Increased levels of lycopene reduced damage to mitochondrial DNA in the skin, which is also linked to ageing skin.