Lycopene: Advantages for Health and Prime Food Supply
Lycopene, a vibrant red antioxidant in the carotenoid family, is found in a variety of foods and supplements. Known for its potential health benefits, lycopene may help reduce neuropathic pain, a type of pain caused by nerve and tissue damage. It may also offer protection against heart disease, potentially lowering the risk of developing or prematurely dying from this condition.
Lycopene's antioxidant action may slow down the death of bone cells, reinforce bone architecture, and help keep bones healthy and strong. High blood levels of lycopene have been found to reduce total and 'bad' LDL cholesterol levels and increase 'good' HDL cholesterol.
In the realm of cancer prevention, diets rich in lycopene may help prevent the development of prostate cancer. Observational studies have linked high intakes of lycopene to a 32-50% lower risk of lung and prostate cancers.
Lycopene may also provide some support against the damaging effects of the sun, reducing skin reactions to UV exposure and the intensity of skin redness following exposure to UV rays. However, eating very high amounts of lycopene-rich foods led to a skin discoloration known as lycopenodermia in a few rare cases.
Interestingly, lycopene's antioxidant properties may help prevent seizures and memory loss experienced in age-related diseases, such as Alzheimer's. Moreover, it may offer protection against damage caused by pesticides, herbicides, monosodium glutamate (MSG), and certain types of fungi, according to test-tube and animal studies.
Lycopene may help prevent or delay the formation of cataracts and reduce the risk of macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in older adults.
However, it's important to note that there are no well-documented special medications or supplements known to significantly influence lycopene's effect. Lycopene supplements may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and blood-pressure lowering medications. Pregnant women and those taking certain types of medications should exercise caution when consuming lycopene supplements, as one small study found that 2 mg of daily lycopene supplements during pregnancy could increase the risk of preterm labor or low birth weight.
There is currently no recommended daily intake for lycopene, but intakes between 8-21 mg per day appear to be most beneficial. Sun-dried tomatoes contain the highest amount of lycopene per 100 grams, followed by tomato puree, guava, watermelon, fresh tomatoes, canned tomatoes, papaya, pink grapefruit, and cooked sweet red peppers.
In conclusion, while the overall efficacy of lycopene as a dietary supplement is not conclusively proven, its main benefits relate to antioxidant effects and reduction of inflammation. High levels of free radicals can create oxidative stress in your body, which is linked to certain chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer's. By consuming lycopene-rich foods or supplements, you may be taking a step towards protecting your body against these conditions. As always, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or supplement regimen.
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