For a few years now there has increasingly been more information being released on the therapeutic benefits of Lycopene, particularly when it comes to prevention of cardiovascular disease and cancer. We all know the Mediterranean diet is a healthy diet, particularly when it comes to heart health.

One of the reasons is the high amount of Lycopene contained in a typical Mediterranean diet. Obviously, tomatoes rate highly in such a diet and interestingly cooked tomatoes are amongst the best dietary sources of Lycopene. Lycopene has been found to be the carotenoid antioxidant that gives our fruit and vegetables that pink or red colour.

It is understood Lycopene circulates in our blood and it is believed higher levels of Lycopene in the blood equate to a lower risk of heart attack and cardiovascular disease. When it comes to cardiovascular disease, it has been found oxidation of LDL, the bad cholesterol contributes to plaque build-up and hardening of the arteries. Supplementing with Lycopene may make these LDL particles more resistant to oxidation which of course means less risk of plaque build-up. Lycopene may also inhibit the enzyme which produces cholesterol. Interestingly, the purpose of taking a cholesterol-lowering drug is to also inhibit this enzyme.

High blood levels of Lycopene are also thought to be beneficial in reducing the risk of stroke.

For some time, it has been believed Lycopene could have some anti-cancer benefits because of its potent antioxidant properties. Not only does Lycopene circulate in the blood helping prevent plaque build-up, as I wrote last week, it also concentrates in the male reproductive system and is believed may protect against prostate cancer. Lycopene may also help prevent and help in the treatment of benign enlarged prostate and the assist in reducing pressure on the bladder.Lycopene may also be beneficial in preventing the sun’s UV damage to the skin, safeguarding from skin cancer.

When looking to increase the Lycopene levels in our blood, following the Mediterranean diet is a good place to start. Our bodies don’t produce Lycopene which means it needs to come from foods we eat or supplementing with a Lycopene capsule.

To ensure we obtain sufficient Lycopene in our diet it can be helpful to take a Lycopene supplement. It’s very important to ensure when choosing a supplement, it’s designed to have the maximum bioavailability to be the most effective. When exposed to air Lycopene becomes unstable however a 2014 Harvard University trial discovered when extracted correctly and then combined with whey protein molecules, the absorption was greatly improved.  A patented Lycopene capsule is available which contains LactoLycopene which combines Lycopene and whey protein.  

Much has been invested in developing and researching this patented Lycopene formula which is believed may reverse the effects of hardening of the arteries and blood flow lessen LDL cholesterol by approximately 90% majorly increase Lycopene levels in the blood.

If you want to know more call in to see the team at Go Vita Your Health Shop at 5 North St, Batemans Bay or call on 44729737. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday after 12.30 pm.