Articles
Lycopene
Lycopene- Everything You Need to Know About Lycopene
Lycopene is an organic pigment found in many natural food sources, responsible for the red color.
It acts as an antioxidant, helping to reduce the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer.
What Are the Benefits of Lycopene?
- Reduces the risk of heart disease
- Lowers the risk of prostate cancer
- Provides protection from UV rays from the sun
Examples of Lycopene Sources
Vegetables | Fruits
- Tomatoes
- Asparagus
- Red bell peppers
- Watermelon
- Guava
- Grapefruit
- Apricots
- Papaya
Lycopene Content in Various Foods
| Food | Serving Size | Lycopene Amount (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| Canned crushed tomatoes | 1 cup | 54.4 |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | 1 cup | 24.8 |
| Tomato juice | 1 cup | 22 |
| Guava | 1 cup, sliced | 8.59 |
| Watermelon | 1 cup, sliced | 6.89 |
| Fresh tomatoes | 1 cup, sliced | 4.63 |
| Tomato paste | 1 tablespoon | 4.6 |
| Grapefruit | 1 cup, sliced | 3.26 |
| Papaya | 1 cup, sliced | 2.65 |
| Ketchup | 1 tablespoon | 2.05 |
References:
Minorsky, Peter. (2002). Lycopene and human health. Plant physiology. 130. 1077-8.