What are the sources of lycopene? What benefits does it have?
Lycopene is a natural pigment contained in plants, mainly in the ripe fruit of tomato, a plant of the family Solanaceae. It is the natural food ingredient with the strongest antioxidant capacity found in nature.
Scientific research has confirmed that lycopene has various effects such as delaying aging, inhibiting tumors, improving human immunity, and reducing cardiovascular diseases. It's also thought to be good for bone health and, as a potent antioxidant, may help prevent heart disease.
In addition to food sources like tomatoes, watermelon, and sweet red peppers, lycopene is also available as a dietary supplement in the form of tablets, capsules, and softgels.
Benefits of lycopene supplements:
1. Bone health
There is growing evidence that lycopene has the ability to help maintain bone strength. The study suggests that supplementation with tomato paste, which is high in lycopene, can help maintain bone strength.
2. Antioxidant
Lycopene is an antioxidant, so it has a good antioxidant function.
3. Heart and blood vessel health
Higher lycopene intake and blood levels are associated with a lower risk of stroke, and mounting evidence supports the role of lycopene in keeping blood vessels healthy.
