is lycopene protection from cellular damage?
The Web, April 20, 2005 The latest wave of scientific discovery to reach the public and create a buzz is the research regarding lycopene. Lycopene gives red color to tomatoes, pink grapefruit, watermelon, guava and rosehip. The body uses lycopene to make vitamin A as well as to protect the body’s cells from damage. In the body, lycopene is stored in the liver, lungs, prostate gland, colon and skin. Eating lycopene-containing vegetables seems to lower the risk of certain types of cancer. For example, Italians who consume a lot of tomato products appear to have a lower risk of cancer of the digestive tract*. Some research also suggests that lycopene may reduce the risk of cancers of the lung, bladder, cervix and skin. Future studies** will focus on the possibility of lycopene defending against cancers of the digestive tract, breast and prostate cancer. This is wonderful news, the humble tomato can help save you from the threat of cancer, safeguard your vision and improve your digestion.
