Lycopene
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Form: Extract
Food source: Tomato
Benefits of Lycopene
- Heart
- Prostate
- Eyes
What is Lycopene?
Lycopene is a lipid-soluble compound responsible for the bright red colour it gives to tomatoes, grapefruits and watermelons, among other fruits and vegetables. It is also responsible for the multiple health benefits obtained from consuming tomatoes and related tomato products.
Lycopene is characterised by its high 'antioxidant' content which is the highest among carotenoid pigments. It is primarily for this reason that epidemiological studies show there may be a positive cardiovascular health outcome as a result of the dietary consumption of lycopene.
The term ‘antioxidant’ is used to describe bioactive compounds that can help lower ‘oxidative stress’, the main contributor to many health conditions. Oxidative dress is also the driver of the ageing process and ageing-related conditions.
Ageing is the most prevalent risk factor for non-communicable chronic ageing-related disorders, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus and neurological disorders. Numerous studies have demonstrated that lycopene has significant effects on ageing biomarkers, helps prevent the ageing process, and also helps minimise the severity of age-related chronic diseases.
Lycopene consumption may help provide a protective effect on prostate health, with observational studies showing that a high intake of carotenoids, including lycopene, can help provide a 32-50% lower risk of lung and prostate cancers. You may be interested in reading our comprehensive guide on prostate health.
