Name: Lycopene - Antioxidant Protection
Scientific Name:
Intro: Lycopene is a non-essential nutrient that is in the same family as beta-carotene and lutein. It is the substance that gives tomatoes and several other fruits their deep red color. Attention has been focused on lycopene for its potential use in preventing cardiovascular diseases and cancer, and for its potential immune boosting properties.
Lycopene is a proven antioxidant. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which may damage the body's cells. Research shows that lycopene in tomatoes can be absorbed more efficiently by the body if processed into juice, sauce, paste and ketchup. The chemical form of lycopene found in tomatoes is converted by the temperature changes involved in processing to make it more easily absorbed by the body. In the body, lycopene is deposited in the liver, lungs, prostate gland, colon and skin. Its concentration in body tissues tends to be higher than all other carotenoids. Epidemiological studies have shown that high intake of lycopene is inversely associated with the incidence of certain types of cancer.
Nutrient Content:
Benefits:
Comments: The Dietary Supplement Information Bureau recommends an average daily dosage of approximately 2 - 6 mg of Lycopene for optimal health. There are no known toxicities associated with this dietary supplement and is considered safe when used in accordance with proper dosing guidelines
Tomatoes are by far the richest source of lycopene, a close relative of beta-carotene that appears to be a strong inhibitor of prostate cancer, colon cancer, and possibly heart disease. Cooking actually makes lycopene more absorbable, so tomato sauce, tomato paste, and tomato puree all are great ways to take in this nutrient.
Caution: This dietary supplement should not be used in children under 10 years of age unless recommended by a physician. Pregant women or women who are breastfeeding should consult their physician before taking this supplement.
Possible Interactions
Mineral Oil
Mineral oil decreases the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients, such as lycopene, from the digestive tract. It is recommended not to take these agents at the same time
Orlistat
This medication decreases the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients, such as lycopene, from the digestive tract. It is recommended not to take these agents at the same time. Supplementation with the affected nutrient may be necessary.
Bile acid sequestrants
These medications decrease the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients such as lycopene. Supplementation with the affected nutrient(s) may be necessary. These drugs include cholestyramine, colestipol, colesevelam
Olestra
The non-fat, calorie-free cooking oil decreases the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients, such as lycopene, from the digestive tract. Supplementation with the affected nutrient may be necessary.
Chitosan
This nutrient decreases the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients, such as lycopene, from the digestive tract. It is recommended not to take these agents at the same time. Supplementation with the affected nutrient may be necessary