A lycopene diet is one rich in fruits and vegetables. That's because lycopene belongs to a group of pigments called carotenoids, which give certain fruits and vegetables their color. The most consumed lycopene-rich food in North America is the tomato, but other healthy and delicious foods also contain lycopene.
About Lycopene
Lycopene is classified as an antioxidant, a substance that works to possibly prevent cell damage in the body. Research continues to study lycopene's role in a variety of health conditions, particularly cancer, but nothing has been substantiated. Lycopene gives certain foods their red color and is most typically associated with tomato products, such as canned tomatoes and tomato juice.
Best Foods
One cup of tomato paste contains more than 75,000 mcg of lycopene. Comparing this to 1 cup of papaya, which contains 2,559 mcg of lycopene, shows how concentrated levels of lycopene are in tomato products. Other good sources of lycopene are watermelon, grapefruit, guava and apricot; 1 cup of watermelon contains 6,889 mcg of lycopene. Remember, all tomato by-products are lycopene-rich, so consuming ketchup, tomato-based salsa and entrees of pasta with tomato sauce add to your lycopene intake.
Possible Benefits
There are no scientifically backed health benefits of lycopene, but interest exists in its possible role in many conditions. Research about lycopene's role in heart disease, atherosclerosis, macular degeneration and cancer has been undertaken and is ongoing. Lycopene's role in cancer is particularly strong, but study results have been inconsistent. According to the American Cancer Society, some studies have found that people with more lycopene in their blood show a reduced risk for cancer. Stomach, lung and prostate cancers are the most discussed when it comes to lyopene's possible benefits.
Tips
Consuming cooked tomatoes appears to raise lycopene levels more than eating raw tomatoes. Lycopene-rich foods don't seem to be harmful and help provide other important nutrients such as vitamin C, folate and potassium. Lycopene supplements are available, but they may cause nausea and gas in some people.
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