A bright red pigment most abundantly found in tomatoes, but also present in watermelons and pink grapefruit.
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer and heart disease. It may also help lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation.
Occurrence:
Lycopene is a bright red pigment found in tomatoes, watermelon, pink grapefruit, and papaya.
Unlike α and β-carotene, it does not get converted to vitamin A in the human body.
Chemical Nature:
Lycopene is a non-provitamin A carotenoid, characterized by its acyclic structure with a series of 11 conjugated double bonds, making it one of the most potent antioxidants among dietary carotenoids.
Medicinal Benefits:
1. Antioxidant Activity:
Its high number of conjugated double bonds gives it a strong ability to quench singlet oxygen and neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress.
2. Cardiovascular Health:
Lycopene has been associated with reduced risk of heart disease by improving lipid profiles and lowering blood pressure.
3. Cancer Prevention:
Several studies suggest a link between high intake of lycopene-rich foods and a reduced risk of certain cancers, particularly prostate cancer.
4 Skin Protection:
It may also protect the skin from ultraviolet (UV) light-induced erythema or sunburn.
5. Heart Health:
Lycopene has been associated with lower risk of heart disease, possibly due to its ability to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
6. Skin Protection:
Lycopene may also help protect skin from sunburn and UV-induced damage.