Lycopene

Lycopene belongs to a class of elements called carotenoids. Carotenoids are present in many plants and account for the bright colors you see in such things as fall leaves, orange carrots, and red tomatoes. While lycopene is found in several vegetables its highest concentration comes in tomatoes. Clinical studies have revealed lycopene’s effectiveness in several areas.

Heart Disease: Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant helping eliminate free radicals in the body which can damage cells. It also works to prevent the oxidation of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. It is this oxidation that leads to atherosclerosis and heart disease. Lycopene can help lower the risk of heart disease. According to one study, individuals with high levels of lycopene were half as likely to experience a heart attack.

Macular Degeneration: Age related macular degeneration affects nearly 10 million Americans and is the leading cause of blindness in people over 55 years of age. Lycopene, as a carotenoid like lutein, may help prevent macular degeneration. The level of lycopene in the blood is inversely related to the risk of developing age related macular degeneration. In other words, high levels of lycopene correspond with low risk levels for the disease.

Prostate health: Studies are on-going looking into the effectiveness of lycopene from tomatoes on prostate health. Studies indicate that lycopene combined with the other phytochemicals in tomatoes can effectively reduce the risk or slow the progression of prostate problems. It is important to note that the best results occurred when the lycopene supplement included the additional nutrients from tomatoes like phytoene, phytofluene, natural vitamin E, beta-carotene and phytosterols. All the important nutrients of tomatoes are found in Lyc-o-mato®.

Not all lycopene products are equivalent. Vitabase Lycopene comes from Lyc-o-mato®. Lyc-o-mato® is an extract of all the nutrients from tomatoes in the tomato’s own oil. Studies confirm the benefits of lycopene are enhanced by the complete nutrient profile of tomatoes. Lyc-o-mato® is a natural extract with no or few side effects. Its safety has been confirmed in independent studies. Learn more...