Lycopene

What is Lycopene?

Lycopene is a carotenoid present in human serum and skin as well as the liver, adrenal glands, lungs, prostate and colon. Lycopene has been found to possess antioxidant and anti-proliferative properties in animal and laboratory studies, although activity in humans remains controversial.

Some of the more common conditions that benefit from the use of Lycopene as a supplement include:

• Antioxidant
• Asthma caused by exercise 
• Atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) and high cholesterol 
• Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) 
• Breast cancer prevention 
• Cervical cancer prevention 
• Coronary artery disease (prevention) 
• Gastrointestinal tract and colorectal cancer prevention 
• Gingivitis 
• High blood pressure among other conditions
  

AIDS, cognitive function, diabetes mellitus, inflammatory conditions, mesothelioma melanoma, oral leukoplakia, pancreatitis, Parkinson's disease, respiratory infections, rheumatoid arthritis, stroke prevention are some of the untested uses for lycopene. Further research is needed for these uses.

The best known source for lycopene is tomatoes. There is no well established definition of "lycopene deficiency," and direct evidence that repletion of low lycopene levels has any benefit is lacking.

Side Effects and Warnings of Lycopene

Lycopene being a natural product is relatively safe. However, there are some people who can have some allergic reactions to lycopene or even tomato based products.

Rare reports of diarrhoea, nausea, stomach pain or cramps, gas, vomiting, and loss of appetite have been reported. Tomatoes and tomato-based products may be acidic and irritate stomach ulcers. Lycopene has been associated with death from a cancer-related haemorrhage, although causality is unclear.

It is essential that you consult your doctor before you start using this or any other supplements. This is especially so if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

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