Lycopene is a natural chemical found in plants that gives them the red color. It has been studied for a variety of medical conditions. Research studies indicate that adequate amounts of lycopene-rich foods may help prevent prostate cancer. Regarding the benefits of lycopene for treating prostate cancer, some studies found this nutrient beneficial, but larger studies are needed to fully confirm lycopene's effects on prostate tumors.
Cancer Prevention
Men who consumed at least 10 servings of tomato-based foods per week cut their risk of developing cancer by 45 percent, and those who consumed between four and seven servings per reduced their risk by 20 percent, according to an extensive study conducted by researchers from Harvard Medical School in 1995. The authors of the study suggested that lycopene is the nutrient responsible for protecting the prostate from developing cancer.
Cancer Treatment
Lycopene has been studied not only for prevention cancer but for potential benefits of treating prostate cancer as well. In animal models, lycopene helped reduce the volume and the weight of prostate tumors, according to C.M. Yang and colleagues from National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan. The study was published in the December 2010 issue of "Molecular Nutrition and Food Research." The authors suggested that lycopene may stop the blood supply or the tumor, thus helping reduce its size. However, more research is needed in humans to confirm these findings.
Sources & Dosage
Lycopene is found in tomatoes and in smaller quantities in watermelon, guava and apricots. For better absorption of lycopene in the body, the scientists from Harvard Medical School recommend using cooked tomatoes, rather then consuming this vegetable fresh. Lycopene supplements are available as over-the-counter products and should be taken with food to improve lycopene's assimilation in the body. The daily dosage should be around 6 g of lycopene daily, ideally derived from tomato-based foods.
Considerations
Prostate cancer is a serious condition that requires urgent medical treatment. If you have this condition, talk to your doctor to find out if lycopene or other supplements may help you. Keep in mind that lycopene does not replace conventional treatment. Besides increasing your consumption of lycopene, a healthy diet, low in animal fats and dairy products and high in fresh fruits and vegetables, may help keep your prostate healthy. Lycopene supplements have not been approved by the FDA to treat prostate cancer or any other health condition.
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