| Description of Lycopene (Tomato Extract) 15mg 30 softgels from Source Naturals | |
Lycopene Antioxidant Carotenoid 5 mg, 10 mg and 15 mg Softgels
Lycopene, the carotenoid pigment that gives tomatoes their red color, has been
the focus of recent scientific research. Lycopene is one of the four main carotenoids
normally found in human blood and tissue. Studies show that lycopene has exceptional
antioxidant activity against singlet-oxygen free radicals.
Lycopene - Tomatoes Like You've Never Seen Them Before
It's hard to imagine that the ancestor of the beefsteak tomato was a tiny yellow
fruit first harvested by the Incas. Tomatoes have come a long way since their
origin in the Andes, becoming more popular than any other fruit or vegetable
in America. (Botanically, the tomato is really a fruit, despite the Supreme
Court's 1893 ruling that it's a vegetable.)
Today, our appreciation of this dietary staple is entering a new chapter. Modern
nutrition science has delved into the biochemistry of the tomato and discovered
unique phytonutrients with powerful influences on the human body. Utilizing
this research, Source Naturals has introduced a concentrated form of the tomato's
most vital nutritional compound: Lycopene.
Lycopene is the pigment that gives tomatoes, watermelons and some grapefruits
their healthy red color. Found most abundantly in tomatoes (Lycopersicon esulentum),
lycopene is a member of the carotenoid family. This group of phytonutrients
are major contributors to the health of the human race. (Phyto is derived from
the Greek word for plant.)
Over 500 different carotenoids have been identified by science, and almost 10%
of them are found in human blood and tissue. Best known is beta-carotene, whose
important benefits have been well-documented. Other familiar phytonutrients
include allicin from garlic, and capsaicin from chili peppers.
Lycopene, lutein, alpha-carotene and betacarotene are the most abundant of the
carotenoids present in human blood and tissues. Human
breast milk has been found to contain 19 carotenoids, including lycopene. Like
many carotenoids, lycopene has evolved as an integral part of human biochemistry,
with many benefits to our well-being. Since mammals cannot synthesize it, lycopene
must be obtained from the diet.
Lycopene and Prostate Function
One of the most interesting aspects of the way phytonutrients interact with
the human body - beyond their broad spectrum antioxidant activity -
is their tendency to be "organ specific". Different carotenoids have
an affinity for different organs in the body! In the case of lycopene, it¡¯s
the most plentiful carotenoid in the prostate gland. Studies have explored the
link between diets high in lycopene and proper prostate function.
Lycopene Protects Cells
Research has shown that lycopene may protect DNA by its powerful antioxidant
activity against singlet oxygen free radicals, dangerous forerunners to cellular
damage. Lycopene was found to be the most efficient biological carotenoid to
neutralize singlet oxygen - almost 3 times more powerful than beta-carotene.
Also, lycopene has a "sparing effect" for beta-carotene: lycopene
sacrifices itself to free radicals so that beta-carotene can be reserved for
conversion to vitamin A.
Lycopene has another ability that has excited further investigation. It increases
gap junctional intercellular communication, which is the chemical and electrical
coupling between neighboring cells. This enables a healthy exchange of the signals
that regulate normal growth - thereby offering a protective influence on cellular
reproduction.
Getting the Most From Tomatoes
Until recently, lycopene was not commercially available, and hasn't been studied
as extensively as has beta-carotene. But now, thanks to a unique (non-chemical)
proprietary process, lycopene can be obtained from specially bred and cultivated
tomato varieties that are rich in lycopene, and very red. Source Naturals LYCOPENE
is standardized to 5% lycopene in a base of vegetable oil. It also contains
small amounts of other carotenoids, naturally present in tomatoes.
While it's important to continue eating fruits and vegetables, we can also benefit
from the fruits of nutritional research. This is especially important since
so much of our food supply has become denatured, lacking the traditional nutrition
our bodies require. Source Naturals LYCOPENE is a significant step toward reclaiming
the nutrients we need to help create a life of health and vitality.
Supplement Facts for 15 mg
Serving Size: 1 softgel
Amount %DV
Tomato Oleoresin Extract 6.8% (Lyc-O-Mato) 220 mg
Yielding 15 mg Lycopene
Other Ingredients: rice bran oil, gelatin (capsule), glycerin, water, medium
chain triglycerides, yellow beeswax, and colloidal silicon dioxide.
Warning: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your health care professional
before using Lycopene product.
Suggested Use: One Lycopene softgel daily with a meal.
Source Naturals Lycopene contains no yeast, dairy, egg, gluten, corn, soy or
wheat. Contains no starch, salt, preservatives, or artificial color, flavor
or fragrance.
Disclaimer: The statements made, or products sold through this website, have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Actual results may vary significantly and are dependent on individuals. You should always consult with your physician before starting any health products or any health-related programs. |