What Are The Health Benefits Gained By Consuming Lycopene?
August 28, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant found in red and pink fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit. Consuming lycopene may offer several health benefits, including:
- Antioxidant Properties: Lycopene helps combat free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
- Heart Health: It may promote heart health by reducing the risk of heart disease and lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
- Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest lycopene may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly prostate cancer. However, more research is needed to confirm this.
- Eye Health: Lycopene, along with other antioxidants, supports eye health and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
- Skin Protection: Lycopene may protect the skin from UV damage, potentially reducing the risk of sunburn and skin aging.
- Bone Health: Some research indicates that lycopene may benefit bone health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Anti-Inflammatory: It may have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for overall health.
Remember, the best way to get lycopene is through a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Cooking tomatoes can enhance lycopene absorption since it’s released from the cell walls during cooking. However, lycopene supplements are available but should be used cautiously and preferably under the guidance of a healthcare professional.