Lycopene Reduces Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancer diagnoses for men. Recent evidence suggests that tomato products and other red fruits and veggies have been able to help reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Why is it the red products? Is it just an excellent color?
The answer to the questions is the phytonutrient lycopene. Lycopene is what gives these red fruits and veggies their color. Phytonutrients, including lycopene, have been an essential area in research for their powerful antioxidant effects and potential to prevent common chronic diseases, providing reassurance about the health benefits of these foods.
So why is lycopene important for prostate cancer? Lycopene, the key phytonutrient found in red fruits and veggies, significantly reduces prostate-specific antigen levels (PSA), an essential biomarker for prostate cancer risk (1). The mechanism seems to be lycopene's role in decreasing oxidative DNA damage in prostate cancer patients (2). Understanding this role can empower individuals in their efforts to prevent prostate cancer.
Lycopene improves PSA levels and contributes to other pathways of prostate cancer. It has been shown to interfere with IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor), which can prevent cancer development. It also inhibits the proliferation and promotes cell death of PC3, a prostate cancer cell. (3)
Researchers also identified other compounds that are associated with PSA level reduction. The products include selenium, omega-3 fatty acids, soy isoflavones, grape and pomegranate juice, and green and black tea (1).
Introducing tomato-based products, red fruits, and veggies is an excellent way for current prostate cancer patients to combat the disease. These products can also be used as preventative measures against prostate cancer.
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