What Is Lycopene, and What Foods Contain It?
Lycopene is a carotenoid, a plant substance that gives fruits and vegetables a range of colors — from yellow to bright red. It’s found in tomatoes, dried apricots, pink grapefruit, guava, watermelon, and papaya. Lycopene is also an antioxidant. Antioxidants are natural cancer-fighting agents found in fruits, vegetables, tea, and soy. Scientists believe antioxidants fight cancer with their ability to combat free radicals. The body normally makes free radicals, which help fight off infections and viruses. But too many of these highly charged little bundles may damage the DNA in cells, which can lead to the growth of cancer cells.
