Lycopene, found in tomatoes and watermelon, has many health benefits including cancer prevention and skin improvement. Lycopene extract is available in capsules, tinctures, and powders as a dietary supplement. It is also an antioxidant and can protect against UV radiation damage and heart disease. Side effects are rare, but those with allergies or stomach ulcers should avoid it.
Tomato lovers may already be aware of the many lycopene benefits that come from consuming the substance. Cancer prevention, cardiovascular health, and dozens of other benefits are linked to the pigmentation of berries. For those who do not enjoy eating tomatoes, watermelon, or other lycopene-rich foods, but want to reap its benefits, lycopene extract is available in other forms of nutritional supplements.
As a dietary supplement, a person can take this useful carotenoid in the form of a lycopene capsule, tincture, or powder. In powdered form, the dietary aid is red-brown in color; its shadow is similar when it is liquefied. The extract should be used as directed on the product packaging. A typical serving contains almost half an ounce (1,000 milligrams) of tomato extract.
One of the most compelling reasons people use the nutritional supplement is the link between lycopene and cancer prevention. Colon, uterine, esophageal, pancreatic, prostate, bladder and oral cancers in particular can be prevented by using the extract. Lycopene works by fighting free radicals that attack human cells, which can cause cancer and other diseases. Some research indicates that the extract may also help people who already have tumors, slowing their growth and decreasing the size of the tumor.
Although most people who use lycopene do so for health reasons, it is also a popular beauty-enhancing supplement. Some studies have shown that the extract can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Lycopene can also help the skin retain its elasticity.
Sometimes sold as a tomato extract, lycopene extract is usually taken from the tomato plant. In addition to its cancer-fighting properties, lycopene benefits also include protecting the epidermis from ultraviolet radiation damage and warding off heart disease by regulating blood lipid and cholesterol levels. Lycopene extract is also believed to help boost the immune system and fight aging and general wear and tear on the body.
Scientifically known as Lycopersicum Esculentum, lycopene extract is generally inexpensive and available at most health food stores. As an antioxidant, the carotenoid has been found to be 100 times more effective than vitamin E and three times more beneficial than B-carotene. For this reason, the extract is often applied in various other chemical compounds, health foods, and products. If stored in a cool, dry place, and out of direct sunlight, lycopene extract can last up to two years.
A natural extract, lycopene is considered safe for most people. People with known allergies to lycopene or tomato should refrain from using the supplement. Although side effects are rare, people taking lycopene extract may experience loss of appetite, nausea, gas, diarrhea, cramps, and other uncomfortable symptoms. People with stomach ulcers should not use lycopene extract, as the acidity of the supplement can cause irritation.
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