Lycopene helps in cancer prevention

Lycopene is a compound that gives red color to fruits and vegetables . Some of the best sources of lycopene are tomatoes, watermelon, papaya and guava. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that has an action that helps in reducing the level of free radicals in the body and thus protects cells from damage and promotes the health of the overall system.

Numerous studies have shown that lycopene aids in the prevention and fight against various cancers, including prostate, lung, pancreas, rectum, esophagus, colon, breast and stomach. The best source of lycopene tomatoes and tomato products.

According to the study, published in the journal Oxford Journals, regular consumption of tomatoes and tomato products can help prevent various types of cancer. Studies have also shown that lycopene is an important input via tomatoes and tomato products, not from supplements.

Tomato, reveals to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, due to high levels of carotenoids (alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin and lycopene), can significantly help in the prevention of breast cancer.

Tomatoes may also help prevent prostate cancer. One study found that men who eat 10 servings per week tomatoes or tomato products, have a 18% lower risk of developing prostate cancer.

The best way to enter the tomato lycopene is that heat-treated with a small amount of fat. Studies have shown that it is better to eat cooked tomato as compared to fresh. Extracts and lycopene supplements have no such effect.

Do not forget the watermelon, which is also an excellent source of lycopene. Although one slice of watermelon contains lycopene as much as one cup of tomato juice, watermelon has a number of other health benefits. Watermelon is an excellent choice for people who for some reason do not eat tomatoes and tomato products. The statistical studies have shown that a large number of people feel abdominal discomfort after eating tomatoes and tomato products.