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Lycopene

Also indexed as:Carotenoid (Lycopene)
Lycopene: Main Image

Lycopene, found primarily in tomatoes, is a member of the carotenoid family--which includes beta-carotene and similar compounds found naturally in food--and has potent anti-oxidant capabilities.

  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • This interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Our proprietary "Star-Rating" system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for AmountWhy
Asthma
30 mg daily2 stars[2 stars] Lycopene, an anti-oxidant found in tomatoes, helps reduce exercise-related asthma attacks.
Prostate Cancer
For symptoms: 15 mg twice per day; for prevention: 4 mg twice per day2 stars[2 stars] Supplementing with lycopene may help slow down aggressive growth of prostate cancer.
Sunburn
Take 6 mg daily from a tomato extract during periods of high sun exposure2 stars[2 stars] Studies have shown lycopene to be helpful in protecting the skin from sunburn.
Atherosclerosis
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star] The carotenoid lycopene, present in high amounts in tomatoes, may help prevent atherosclerosis.
Immune Function
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star] Large amounts of the carotenoid lycopene have been shown to increase the activity of natural killer cells in the elderly.

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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2013.