Lycopene is a carotene and a phytonutrient (health-enhancing chemical compounds found in plants). It can be obtained from red colored fruits and vegetables, such as pink grapefruit and tomatoes. Studies have shown that it is a powerful antioxidant and may also offer greater protection to the human body. In this article, I will provide you with a complete overview of lycopene and how it benefits the human body.
1) DISCOVERY:
Lycopene was discovered and isolated in 1910.
2) HEALTH BENEFITS:
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant and keeps your body safe from free radicals. Free radicals are dangerous byproducts released into your body’s cells during oxygen-based reactions. They have been linked to cancer (a health disorder in which cells in the body grow rapidly and uncontrollably), diabetes (a disease in which blood glucose reaches dangerously high levels), a weak immune system, and accelerated aging.
Early studies on this nutrient indicate that it may also be antibacterial (a substance that inhibits bacterial growth), antifungal (a substance that inhibits fungal infections), antimutagenic (a substance that inhibits genetic mutation), and antitoxic (a substance that protects against toxins). . ). Additionally, it can prevent arteriosclerosis (a condition in which the walls of the arteries harden and lose elasticity), cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. However, more evidence is required before these health benefits can be confirmed.
3) RECOMMENDED DAILY ALLOWANCE (RDA):
Humans can survive without lycopene, so no official RDA has been established. However, it has been suggested that to maintain optimal health you should consume 6.5 milligrams (mg) of this natural nutrient each day.
4) FOOD SOURCES:
Sun-dried tomatoes are the richest food source of lycopene available, containing an impressive 42.9 mg per 100 grams (g). Other top sources include guavas, 2mg per 100g), pink grapefruits (1.4mg per 100g), and watermelons (4.5mg per 100g).
5) SYMPTOMS OF OVERDOSE:
The only reported overdose symptom associated with lycopene is lycopenodermia (a condition that causes the skin to turn orange/yellow in color). The good news is that this can be reversed by reducing your intake of this nutrient.
6) DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
There are no official deficiency symptoms associated with lycopene consumption. It has been suggested that not getting enough of it in the long term can cause chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes. However, there is no evidence available to support these claims.
7) SUMMARY:
Although you can get by without lycopene, the preliminary evidence is very promising and you should definitely include it in your diet. Eat pink grapefruit or watermelon for breakfast, add sun-dried tomatoes to your lunch, or use regular tomatoes for dinner and you can supply your body with high levels of this carotene.
