THE BREAKDOWN Lycopen is a phytonutient that gives tomatoes their red colors. It is a member of carotenoid family. It protects plant cells against sunlight and serves as a light-absorbing pigment during photosynthesis. Most Americans get lycopen from tomato products.
Lycopen is also regarded as a powerful antioxidants that protects the body from oxidative damage. Several studies have examined the relationship between lycopen intake and certain types of cancer. The studies concluded that lycopen reduced the risk of developing cancers such as esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, colon cancer and prostate cancer.
IN THE BODY Unlike other vitamins such as vitamin C, lycopen is relatively heat stable. Heating foods during cooking helps intestine absorb more lycopen. Fat also assists to get more lycopen from the gastrointestinal tract.
Withdrawls There are no known definitive symptoms of lycopen deficiency.
Natural Forms Tomato, guava, watermelon, papaya, aprocots, and pink grapefruit can all be good sources of lycopen.
DAILY DOSE There's no daily recommended dose set for lycopen. However, ample amount of lycopen intake is encouraged to protect against free radicals.
OVER DOSAGE There are no known records of overdose
SUPPLEMENTS Lycopen supplement can be helpful in easing prostate problems
