Lycopene Overview:
It was only in the late part of the twentieth century that the investigation of Lycopene’s health benefits started. However, within such a short period of time, scientists and medical researchers have established the significant role it plays in human health. You can find Lycopene in certain vegetables and fruits. Once you consume the foods with Lycopene, your body will use it as an antioxidant. However, for your body to benefit from it, you need to eat enough of the foods containing it. The fruits and vegetables that are great sources of this substance can easily be added to your daily health regimen. The following are some foods that contain high concentration of Lycopene:
Tomatoes
Pink Grapefruits
Pink Guava
Watermelon
Papaya
Rosehips
Health Benefits of Lycopene:
Lycopene is well known specifically to help prevent many forms of cancer as well as the prevention and treatments of many illnesses and diseases such as:
1) Heart diseases – stops LDL cholesterol from being oxidized by free radicals and in turn cannot be deposited in the plaques which narrows and hardens the arteries
2) Helps prevent diabetes
3) Treatment of infertility – Results from Infertility-Research tests showed that Lycopene can boost sperm concentration in men
4) Prevents Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Cataracts
5) Prevents the aging of skin and keeps it younger looking
6) Acts as an internal sunscreen and protects your skin from sunburn
7) Prevent osteoporosis
8) Reduce risk of getting Prostate, Breast, Liver and Bladder Cancer
A recently published WHO (World Health Organisation) report recommends a minimum of 400g of fruit and vegetables per day for the prevention of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity, as well as for the prevention and alleviation of several micronutrient deficiencies. Not only that, you are encouraged to consume a variety colours of fruits and vegetables, including Lycopene daily.
Fun facts: Do you know that men in Italy have less risk of getting Prostate cancer as tomato-based foods (i.e. Pizza and Spaghetti) are a major part of their diet?
You may also be interested in Antioxidant Supplements.
Credits to: http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/healthy-eating/health-benefits-of-lycopene.html
