Lycopene

Lycopene is believed to have important antioxidant functions that protect healthy cells from oxidative and free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable chemicals formed in the body during metabolism and from exposure to environmental sources such as pollution and cigarette smoke. Free radicals are not inherently bad as they are necessary for energy metabolism and immune function, but when there are an excessive number of free radicals in the body, they can attack healthy cells, especially their membrane lipids and proteins.

Like beta-carotene, lycopene is believed to be an efficient quencher of a chemically reactive species of oxygen called singlet oxygen. Singlet oxygen participates in oxidative reactions which can impair or destroy important cellular parts, such as membranes, nucleic acids (DNA), and enzymes. In addition, singlet oxygen reactions can generate free radicals which lead to further damage. Studies show that lycopene’s ability to quench singlet oxygen can be equal or better than that of beta-carotene.

Dietary lycopene is absorbed by the intestinal tract and distributed into most tissues. The highest concentrations of lycopene have been measured in testes, liver, and adrenal glands. Lycopene may also play a special role in healthy prostate function.