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eCureMe’s Healthy Living
LYCOPEN
THE BREAKDOWN
Lycopen is a phytonutient that gives tomatoes their red
colors. It is a member of carotenoid family. It protects
plant cells against sunlight and serves as a light-absorbing
pigment during photosynthesis. Most Americans get lycopen from
tomato products.
Lycopen is also regarded as a powerful antioxidants that
protects the body from oxidative damage. Several studies have
examined the relationship between lycopen intake and certain
types of cancer. The studies concluded that lycopen reduced the
risk of developing cancers such as esophageal cancer, gastric
cancer, colon cancer and prostate cancer.
IN THE BODY
Unlike other vitamins such as vitamin C, lycopen is relatively
heat stable. Heating foods during cooking helps intestine absorb
more lycopen. Fat also assists to get more lycopen from the
gastrointestinal tract.
Withdrawls
There are no known definitive symptoms of lycopen deficiency.
Natural Forms
Tomato, guava, watermelon, papaya, aprocots, and pink
grapefruit can all be good sources of lycopen.
DAILY DOSE
There’s no daily recommended dose set for lycopen. However, ample
amount of lycopen intake is encouraged to protect against free
radicals.
OVER DOSAGE
There are no known records of overdose
SUPPLEMENTS
Lycopen supplement can be helpful in easing prostate problems
Go to Vitamins & Minerals Index Page
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