Lycopene

Lycopene is the most effective free radical scavengerthat nature has to offer. As a powerful antioxidant, it supports the immune systemin defending against harmful environmental influences.

Which foods contain lycopene?

Lycopene is contained in foods such as tomatoes and tomato products, red grapefruits, and watermelons.

Origin and function of lycopene

Lycopene belongs to the group of carotenoids. Lycopene gives tomatoes, red grapefruits, and the flesh of watermelons their bright red color. While other carotenoids are found in many vegetables and fruits, lycopene is found in significant amounts mainly in the tomato. Studies prove that lycopene is the substance that can most effectively combat free radicalsin important cells of the body. Its special chemical structureis responsible for the fact that lycopene is able to neutralize harmful singlet oxygen. In addition, lycopene is capable of rendering nitrogen dioxideand hydrogen peroxideinhaled from the air harmless. Lycopene is one of the few vital substances whose bioavailabilityimproves when the fresh food is processed. If you make a soup from tomatoes, the body can absorb lycopene more easily than from raw tomatoes.

Presence of lycopene in the body

Lycopene is absorbed well by the organism in combination with fat. It is present in human plasma and tissuein its natural form in higher concentrations than any other carotenoid. In some organs, the lycopene concentrationis particularly high. Scientists suspect that lycopene is specifically stored in these organs to better protect sensitive parts of the body from the harmful effects of free radicals. The highest lycopene concentrations are found in the liver, the testes, the prostate, and the adrenal gland.

Use of lycopene

Antioxidant effect: Lycopene can neutralize free radicalsand contribute to maintaining skin health under UV radiation.

Arteriosclerosis: Various studies have observed that lycopene can reduce the oxidation of cholesterol. Cholesterol oxidation increases the risk of developingarteriosclerosis.

Cancer: Scientific studies suggest that an increased intake of lycopene results in a lower risk of prostate cancerand other types of cancer compared to a diet that provides for only a low intake of this carotenoid.

Environmental toxins: Due to its antioxidant properties, lycopene is able to protect against damage caused by environmental toxins - such as nitrogen dioxide from polluted air and hydrogen peroxide.

Am I deficient in lycopene?

Even if just one of the following points applies to you, your lycopene intake might be too low:

Do you rarely and eat few tomatoes?

Do you primarily eat tomatoes in raw form?

Do you consume few or no red grapefruitsand watermelons?

How much lycopene does the body need?

Independent nutrition experts recommend a daily intake of 6 mg of lycopene.