All articles tagged with #lycopene
Healthline reports that eating more watermelon may support heart health by increasing intake of nutrients like fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and lycopene, while its amino acid L-citrulline may help lower blood pressure and improve blood flow; its high water content also aids hydration, making watermelon a heart-healthy addition within a balanced diet.
A leading oncologist from Hackensack Meridian Health says a plant-forward, fiber-rich diet can help lower cancer risk over time. He highlights five key food groups: berries (rich in anthocyanins), tomatoes (lycopene), various whole grains (fiber), cruciferous vegetables (glucosinolates like sulforaphane), and garlic/onions (organosulfur compounds). The message is that overall dietary patterns, not a single “superfood,” along with weight management, reduced carcinogen exposure, sleep, physical activity, screening, and avoiding tobacco and excess alcohol, contribute to cancer prevention.
Del Monte has successfully engineered a pink pineapple called "Pinkglow" that is now being sold in stores. The pink color is achieved by muting the enzyme that converts lycopene to beta-carotene, allowing lycopene to accumulate and give the pineapple its distinctive hue. Del Monte used a technique called RNA interference to achieve this genetic modification. The company also developed a golden pineapple called "Honeyglow." The high prices of these genetically engineered pineapples are due to scarcity and marketing, but as production increases, prices are expected to come down.
Tomatoes offer numerous health benefits, including sun protection, lower risk of certain cancers, preservation of eye health, hydration, antioxidant support, gut health improvement, heart health benefits, and weight management. They are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may act as an internal sunscreen and protect against oxidative stress. Tomatoes also contain lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin A, which contribute to eye health. With their high water content and potassium, tomatoes help maintain hydration. Additionally, they provide a punch of vitamin C, support gut health, have antioxidants beneficial for the heart, and can aid in maintaining a healthy weight.