Lycopene is themost effective radical scavengersthat nature has to offer. As a powerfulantioxidantit supports theimmune systemin defenseharmful environmental influences.
Which foods contain lycopene?
Lycopene is found in foods such asTomatoes and tomato products, red grapefruits and watermelons.
Origin and function of lycopene
Lycopene belongs to theGroup ofCarotenoidsLycopene gives tomatoes, red grapefruits and the flesh of watermelons their brightred colorWhile other carotenoids are found in many vegetables and fruits, lycopene is found in significant amounts mainly intomatoStudies show that lycopene is the substance that is most effectiveFree radicalsin important cells of the body. Itsspecial chemical structureis responsible for lycopene's ability to neutralize harmful singlet oxygen. Lycopene is also able toinhaled nitrogen dioxideandHydrogen peroxideLycopene is one of the few vital substances whoseBioavailabilityimproves when the fresh food is processed. If you cook fromTomato soup,The body can absorb lycopene more easily than from raw tomatoes.
Occurrence of lycopene in the body
Lycopene isin combination with fatwell absorbed by the organism. It occurs inhuman plasma and tissueIn its natural form, it is present in higher concentrations than any other carotenoid. In someorgansis theLycopene concentrationparticularly high. Scientists suspect that lycopene is stored in these organs to protect sensitive parts of the body fromharmful effects of free radicalsThe highest lycopene concentrations are found in theliver, thetesticles, theprostateand theadrenal glandproven.
Use of lycopene
Antioxidant effect: Lycopene canNeutralize free radicalsand atUV radiationcontribute to maintaining healthy skin.
arteriosclerosis: In various studies it has been observed that lycopene inhibits the oxidation ofcholesterolCholesterol oxidation increases the risk of developingarteriosclerosis.
Cancer: Scientific studies indicate that an increased intake of lycopenethe risk of prostate cancerand other types of cancer is lower than in a diet that only provides a low intake of the carotenoid.
Environmental toxins: Because of hisantioxidant propertiesLycopene is able to protect against damage caused by environmental toxins such as nitrogen dioxide from polluted air and hydrogen peroxide.
Am I lacking lycopene?
Already ata relevant pointYour supply of lycopene may be too low:
Eat rarely andfew tomatoes?
Eat tomatoes mainly inraw form?
Consume little orno red grapefruitsandWatermelons?
How much lycopene does the body need?
Independent nutrition experts recommend a daily intake of 6 mg of lycopene.
