In an article by Dr. Ronald Hoffman, the benefits of lycopene for men are a “green light” for foods containing processed tomatoes, a rich source of readily bio-available lycopene.

Most of us are aware that antioxidants have been given the green light from doctors and scientists—but many people may not know that one antioxidant in particular has been associated with fighting prostate cancer:  Lycopene.

Antioxidants help to prevent oxidation in the body.   They quench free radical molecules that can lead to damage in the blood vessels and vital tissues.

Lycopene is a natural plant pigment and is one of the most potent antioxidants available to us.  Lycopene provides foods such as tomatoes, tomato-based products, watermelon and pink grapefruit with their natural red hues.

Several observational studies have shown that the more tomato-based products--such as pizza and pasta—men eat, the lower their risk for developing prostate cancer. Many of these studies have kinked such benefits to the lycopene found in those foods. 

Scientists have also found health benefits for Lycopene as a regular part of the diet.  Lycopene-rich fresh produce is not plentiful year-round in many parts of the country.  However, you can get lycopene throughout the year from processed tomato products. 

Dr. Ronald Hoffman is one of America’s foremost complementary medicine practitioners.  His is author of numerous books and articles for the public and health professionals, and is host of the popular nationally syndicated radio program “Health Talk”, heard weeknights and Saturdays on the WOR Radio Network.