subject: Questions To Ask About Lycopene [print this page] With the rise of prostate health issues who can blame you for pursuing alternate approaches in the hopes of thwarting the onset or easing the symptoms. Some might work while others don't. Still there are lots of people who believe in the healing power of natural remedies to be found in fruits and vegetables. One of these natural remedies is said to exist in red tomatoes - lycopene. But what do we know about it? Well, here are some answers to your burning questions.
What is lycopene?
Lycopene is an antioxidant or phyto-chemical thought by some to prevent or reduce the risk of prostate cancer. It's supposedly fends off free radicals in the body. While there is no actual proof to this theory scientifically, it has caught the attention of many.
How can we get it?
Although present in some fruits like watermelon, pink or red grapefruit and guava, lycopene is really concentrated in red tomatoes. Truth is it's what makes tomatoes red. You can eat them raw but to get the most of this it's best to cook the tomatoes to intensify the effect.
How does it work?
Lycopene works by protecting your cells against toxins and free radicals. It also triggers enzymes to offset likely carcinogens before they develop cancers. Lycopene is one antioxidant that packs a punch when it comes to protecting your body. So what's not to like?
What does the FDA have to say about this?
They are less than enthusiastic. Even if claims suggest that lycopene minimizes the odds of developing prostate cancer, the FDA finds this claim to be preliminary with little scientific support it. More research needs to be done to determine whether or not this claim is true.
What about lycopene supplements?
On lycopene supplements, why eat the tomatoes when you can take a pill, right? The outlook for these is even less promising. To get any benefit you're probablay better off eating the real thing.
The real deal on lycopene:
As of now, there is no new news. But even if lycopene isn't all it's cracked up to be tomatoes give you vitamins C and E, flavonoids, beta-carotene, potassium and foliate. Which isn't bad from something you can grow in your back yard. All that alone is a reason to include them in your diet whenever you get the chance.
