Lycopene is in a class of nutrients known as carotenoids. Some carotenoids make vitamin A when inside your body, but lycopene is known as a non-provitamin A carotenoid. It is an antioxidant that is evident in fruits and vegetables and gives them their bright red, orange and yellow color.
Lycopene: The Antioxidant
Antioxidants may be responsible for reducing the amount of carcinogenic cells within your body. Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radical cells. Free radicals damage healthy cells, interfering with protein and DNA makeup. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize free radical cells and keep them from damaging otherwise healthy cells.
Cancer Prevention
According to a review published in the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition" in 2000, lycopene may be an important component to preventing the development of several types of cancers. This review analyzes several studies in which lycopene is thought to reduce cancer. In one study, published in the "Journal of the National Cancer Institute" in 1995, intake of lycopene from tomato based products was inversely related to prostate cancer. In fact, incidence of prostate cancer reduced by 35 percent with only 10 servings of tomato products eaten per week. Another study published in the "International Journal of Cancer" in 1994, found a reduction in cancers of the stomach, colon and rectum with regular lycopene intake.
Tomatoes and Lycopene
Tomatoes are the best source of lycopene in the average American diet. One cup of pureed tomatoes, enough to cover your pasta, provides 54 mg of lycopene. In fact, tomatoes may be the best way to reap the preventative properties of lycopene. In one study, published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" in 1985, a high intake of tomatoes was connected to a 50 percent reduction in mortality from cancer. This is a significant figure that should not be overlooked.
Recommendations
Although there are no set recommendations for lycopene intake, the American Cancer Society does recommend eating at least five servings of fruit and vegetables each day. Most fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants, which may help to ward off cancer.
