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Lycopene
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Lycopene is a prominent member of the carotenoid family of chemical compounds. Lycopene, similar to other carotenoids such as beta-carotene, is a natural fat-soluble pigment (red, in the case of lycopene) found in certain plants (like tomatoes) and microorganisms, where it serves as an accessory light-gathering pigment and protects these organisms against the toxic effects of oxygen and light. Research indicates that lycopene’s powerful antioxidant properties may also protect humans against certain disorders, such as prostate cancer and perhaps some forms of cancers, and coronary heart disease.
There is specific evidence to support that lycopen may assist in the treatment of prostate cancer. In a recent trial men with prostate cancer were randomly given lycopene or a placebo for three weeks before undergoing prostate surgery. Upon examining the prostate tissue of these men it was found that those who received lycopene had significantly less aggressive growth of cancer cells.
Researchers in Europe have found a statistically signification relation between high dietary lycopene and a lower risk of coronary hear disease. Lycopene supplementation may also boost immune function in the elderly. In a preliminary trial, 15 mg of lycopene per day increase natural killer cells by nearly 30% in only 3 months.
Kucuk O, Sarkar FH, Sakr W, et al. Phase II randomized clinical trial of lycopene supplementation before radical prostatectomy. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2001;10:861–8.
Kohlmeyer L, Kark JD, Gomez-Gracia E, et al. Lycopene and myocardial infarction risk in the EUROMIC study. Am J Epidemiol 1997;146:618–23.
Corridan BM, O’Donohue MP. Carotenoids and immune response in elderly people. Proc Nutr Soc 1998;57:3A.
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