Organic Lycopene

Antioxidant
Lycopene is an antioxidant in the carotenoid family, and antioxidants work to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. When free radical levels exceed antioxidant levels, they create oxidative stress in the body, which is a major cause of the formation of many chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease and Alzheimer's disease.

Cardiovascular Health
Lycopene may also help reduce the risk of heart disease, mainly because it reduces free radical damage, and LDL cholesterol levels, and increases HDL cholesterol. High levels of lycopene in the blood can extend the lifespan of people with metabolic syndrome by years.

Skin Protection
Lycopene also can reduce skin damage from radiation or ultraviolet (UV) rays. When UV irradiation the skin, the skin in the lycopene and UV-generated free radicals combine to protect the skin tissue from damage, compared with the skin not irradiated with UV, the lycopene is reduced by 31% to 46%, and the content of the other components is almost unchanged.

Enhancement of Immunity
Lycopene can activate immune cells, protect phagocytes from their oxidative damage, promote the proliferation of T and B lymphocytes, stimulate the function of effector T-cells, promote the production of certain interleukins and inhibit the generation of inflammatory mediators. Studies have found that moderate doses of lycopene capsules can improve the body's immunity and reduce the damage to the body's immunity caused by acute exercise.

Lycopene is predominantly found in various fruits and vegetables, with tomatoes being the most well-known and abundant source. However, there are several other sources where lycopene can be obtained. Here are some common sources of lycopene:

Tomatoes: Tomatoes, especially cooked or processed forms like tomato paste, sauce, and puree, are rich in lycopene. The concentration of lycopene in tomatoes increases as they ripen, with the highest levels found in fully ripe tomatoes.

Watermelon: Red-fleshed watermelon contains a significant amount of lycopene. This juicy fruit is not only refreshing but also provides a natural source of this beneficial compound.

Pink Grapefruit: The vibrant pink or red flesh of grapefruits contains lycopene. Enjoying a fresh grapefruit or incorporating its juice into your diet can provide a dose of lycopene.

Guava: Guava is a tropical fruit known for its unique flavor and high nutritional content. It is also a good source of lycopene, offering an additional way to incorporate this antioxidant into your diet.

Papaya: Papaya, particularly the ripe red or orange variety, contains lycopene. This tropical fruit is not only delicious but also provides various other health benefits.

Pink or Red Berries: Certain berries, such as pink or red varieties of strawberries, raspberries, and cherries, contain lycopene in smaller amounts. While the levels may be lower compared to other sources, these berries offer additional nutrients and antioxidants.

Supplements: Lycopene is available in supplement form, allowing individuals to obtain a concentrated dose of this antioxidant. These supplements can be found in various formulations and strengths, but it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

It is important to note that the bioavailability of lycopene can be enhanced by consuming it with a source of dietary fat. Adding a drizzle of olive oil to tomato-based dishes can improve the absorption of lycopene by the body.

While lycopene offers numerous benefits, it's important to consider some precautions. Although rare, allergic reactions to lycopene can occur, particularly when used topically. These may manifest as hives, itching, or redness. If you experience such symptoms, discontinue use and seek medical attention.

If consumed in excess, lycopene might cause side effects like bloating, diarrhea, indigestion, or loss of appetite. It's important to follow recommended dosages when taking lycopene supplements and to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new dietary supplement regimen.

Remember that while lycopene can protect the skin from sun damage, it doesn't replace a broad-spectrum sunscreen. You should still apply sunscreen daily and take other sun protection measures, such as wearing a hat or seeking shade during peak sunlight hours.

Lycopene presents an exciting potential in the world of skincare and overall health. Its antioxidant, anti-aging, and sun-protection capabilities, along with its benefits for heart health and overall wellbeing, make it a compelling addition to any skincare or health regimen. As with any supplement or skincare ingredient, understanding how to use it properly and taking necessary precautions is key to harnessing its benefits safely and effectively. With the right approach, lycopene can be a game changer in achieving healthy, radiant skin and robust overall health.

The dietary intake of lycopene is recommended, demonstrated by the health-promoting properties important through all phases of human life, however it is currently not considered an essential nutrient. Evidence suggests a growing interest is observed in lycopene intake from the present general consciousness of the food we consume and food ingredient based cosmeceuticals are increasingly connected with a positive impact on human health and wellness. Lycopene is a natural carotenoid pigment with a variation of intake depending on the population investigated. Although lycopene present in the human body is predominantly derived from tomato and tomato processed foods, this red-coloured compound is also found in other fruits and vegetables. As a result of the low bioavailability of lycopene, its circulating levels are more suitable as prognostic data for health outcomes than its dietary intake values. Lycopene has the potential responsibility for human health in different ways. For example, it can protect lipids, proteins and DNA from oxidative damage; stimulate the modulation of cell growth and the expression of connexin 43, IGF-1 and/or IGF binding protein blood levels as well as intermediate in immune and inflammatory processes. A beneficial or prejudicial cellular response by lycopene will depend on its antioxidant or prooxidant properties respectively, depending on the cellular and extracellular environment. Primarily, carotenoids and metabolites at low doses may present the beneficial effects described above, however the equivalent is not observed at high doses corresponding to harmful prooxidant effects.

Lycopene, one of the most dominant carotenoids in a person's diet, is a well-known natural compound that has protective effects against chronic diseases. Industrial and domestic processing and storage conditions significantly influence retention and isomerization of lycopene; thus, in recent years, great attention has been given for their preservative effects of lycopene. This review highlights recent strategies that have been developed to preserve lycopene in processed products, especially in tomato pulp, puree, paste, and juice. The key factors influencing lycopene degradation and isomerization, such as ingredients and intensity of thermal treatments, are also discussed. Special attention was paid to the crystalline structures of lycopene which facilitate its resistance to degradation and isomerization. Emerging non-thermal processing methods, such as ultrasound and high-pressure processing (HPP), are critically evaluated for their preservation of thermo-labile compounds. Novel trends to improve lycopene stability by micro- and nanoencapsulation and addition of antioxidants are also included to examine their efficacy to protect against light, heat, oxygen, and other oxidative processes. Finally, recommended processing and storage conditions are discussed to provide strategies to retain the highest possible amount of bioactive lycopene until consumption.