Lycopenes are natural carotenoids that are responsible for
the red color in tomatoes. Lycopenes are believed to be the most abundant cartenoid in the
prostate gland. A Harvard research study shows that lycopenes play an important role in
the health of the prostate.
Lycopenes and other anti-oxidants can help protect against
cellular damage and support normal cellular growth. A recent study examining the role of
beta-carotene and lycopene in protection from ultra-violet UV radiation has
expanded lycopenes potential benefits to include protection from UV damage. Exposure to
ultra-violet light by human skin has short and long-term effects. The short term are
sunburn and tanning. The long term are skin aging and increased risk of skin problems.
Scientific research data now indicates that lycopene may be a very important protection
against UV lights on your skin. Lycopene is destroyed by UV radiation and thus you need
some to replace it. If lycopenes powerful antioxidant capabilities is responsible for
protecting against UV light, then raising our skin lycopene levels may provide some
protection to the health of the skin. Lycopenes are better absorbed if combines in
the diet with small amounts of fat.
|