How Does Lycopene Work?
Of all the common carotenoids found in the Western diet, lycopene has been shown in experiments to have the highest oxygen- quenching capacity (strongest antioxidant). It is twice as powerful as beta carotene at neutralizing free radicals. This antioxidant property protects the cells from DNA damage. In addition to this antioxidant activity, lycopene’s biological activities include growth control and cell to cell communication. Tomato sauce, tomatoes, and pizza were the primary contributors of lycopene. While lycopene is found in small amounts in a few fruits, tomato products are the richest sources.
