Lycopene belongs to a group of natural compounds called carotenoids. It gives red color to certain fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, pink grapefruit and kidney beans. Unlike other carotenoids that the body converts into vitamin A, lycopene has no relationship to this vitamin. Instead, its benefits come from its action as a powerful antioxidant, possibly preventing certain diseases by keeping cells healthy. Consult your doctor to discuss whether a lycopene-rich diet is a good strategy for you.
Effects of Lycopene
Because it is an antioxidant, lycopene removes free radicals from the body. These chemicals are metabolic byproducts that cause damage to DNA and other important cellular components. Lycopene may also help prevent cells from becoming cancerous by neutralizing toxins and other potential carcinogens as protection against certain cancers. These include lung, prostate, stomach and bladder cancer. Although research is still in progress, several studies provide evidence supporting the possible anti-cancer benefits of lycopene.
The Evidence
Several large studies have examined the possibility that consumption of lycopene-rich tomatoes may decrease the risk of prostate cancer. For example, a study in the "Journal of the National Cancer Institute" in 1995 followed more than 47,000 men for eight years. They found a 21 percent lower risk of prostate cancer in men who consumed the most lycopene. The Linus Pauling Institute says these findings and the results of other studies are very promising, suggesting that larger, controlled clinical trials are needed to explore how lycopene may prevent cancer.
Lycopene Sources
The richest dietary source of lycopene is tomatoes and tomato products. For example, one cup of raw tomatoes contains 4.6 mg, and one cup of tomato juice provides more than 22 mg. Other foods contain some lycopene, although in lower amounts. These include apricots, watermelon, papaya and pink grapefruit. Lycopene supplements are also available from some health food stores in various potencies. Mayo Clinic indicates that an acceptable dosage of lycopene supplements is between 2 and 30 mg daily.
Recommendations and Precautions
Although consumption of lycopene supplements has not been studied thoroughly, the Mayo Clinic says they are generally considered safe, as are lycopene-rich foods. However, both foods and supplements may be acidic and could lead to gastric upset, gas or diarrhea. In addition, some people may develop an allergy to the supplements or to dietary lycopene. Consult your doctor before consuming lycopene supplements to determine if they are advisable for your situation.
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