Jagsonpal
Pharmaceuticals
The Power of Lycopene
Did you know that several plant compounds around us are linked to plenty of health benefits, including disease protection and prevention? One of the most powerful plant-based nutrients is Lycopene – a phytonutrient with strong antioxidant properties that helps maintain healthy eyes, a healthy heart, strong bones and boosts immunity among other benefits.
Lycopene is known to be found in cell membranes and plays a crucial role in maintaining the cell’s integrity especially when it is under the onslaught of toxins. This naturally occurring chemical gives fruits and vegetables its rich red colour and is found in tomatoes, apricots, guavas, watermelons, red-oranges, pink grapefruits, to name a few.
Health Benefits of Lycopene:
- Lycopene and Heart Health: In addition to its strong antioxidant properties, lycopene ahs the ability to reduce bad cholesterol or LDL, thereby helping lower the risk of hearth ailments, blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues.
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- Stronger Bones: Lycopene is known to help in relieving oxidative stress in bones that cause brittle bones and reinforces the cellular bone architecture to keep them healthy and strong.
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- Healthy Eyes: Lycopene can be one of the strongest eye vitamins as it may have the ability to prevent or delay cataract, age-related macular degeneration (the leading cause of blindness in old age) and other common eye diseases.
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- Lycopene and Cancer: Several studies have shown a connection between lycopene and cancer prevention given its antioxidant profile. Lycopene could build up enzymes in the body that could help break down cancer-causing agents.
While lycopene is available in food sources, it is also important to speak to your healthcare professional if you are seeking lycopene intake outside of your diet. Depending on your medical history, your doctor will be able to identify if supplements or naturally sourced lycopene is the right fit for your health and body.
While lycopene studies are on-going, it is important to include plenty of vegetables and fruits in your daily diet to keep your immune system strong and healthy and keep your body diseases-free!