Tomatoes are one of the richest sources of lycopene—one of the most powerful antioxidants attributed to preventing cancer and other diseases.  Cooked tomato products can provide over six times the lycopene than equal amounts of fresh tomatoes.  Cooking breaks down the tomato cell walls making it easier to absorb lycopene. 

Source:  “Tomatoes: Even Better for You Than You Thought!”, American Dietetic Association, www.eatright.org.