All articles tagged with #lycopene
A small Spanish study indicates that consuming two tablespoons of tomato paste daily for three months may improve attention and processing speed in healthy adults. The findings suggest lycopene supports brain function, though experts emphasize the need for larger trials to confirm these preliminary results.
A small randomized crossover trial in healthy middle-aged adults found that eating 35 grams of tomato paste daily for three months improved selective attention and modestly boosted associative memory; brain scans in a subset showed tentative changes in connectivity across large-scale brain networks, suggesting possible neural reorganization, though results are preliminary due to small sample size and unblinded design.
A small, three-month, randomized crossover trial in healthy middle-aged adults found that daily consumption of tomato paste (35 g) raised lycopene levels and was associated with modest improvements in attention and associative memory; brain scans in a subset showed tentative changes in large-scale brain network connectivity. However, the imaging was underpowered and unblinded, so results are preliminary and require larger, more rigorous trials to determine if tomato-derived lycopene truly alters brain function.
A small Ohio State study found that adults with obesity who drank two 6-ounce servings daily of a specially formulated tomato-soy beverage for four weeks had significant reductions in three inflammatory proteins versus standard tomato juice. While the beverage used concentrated lycopene and soy isoflavones and the results are promising, researchers warn the sample was only 12 people and findings aren’t generalizable; larger studies are needed before dietary recommendations, and grocery-store tomato juice is unlikely to have the same effect. Emphasis remains on an overall healthy eating pattern.
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.