Lycopene and Prostate Health

Author: Ned McCrum

Lycopene and Prostate Health

Perhaps you have heard about the antioxidant lycopene? It is the phytochemical that gives tomatoes, watermelon, grapefruit, apricots, and guava their red-pink hue. Perhaps you have also heard that it has a special affinity for the prostate, especially when it comes to protecting it from cancer. Lycopene is a member of the carotenoid family of antioxidants that also includes beta-carotene, lutein, and astaxanthin. But unlike many of its cousins, lycopene cannot be turned into vitamin A, leaving it to shine as a potent antioxidant.¹

Epidemiological studies have found that men who consume the highest amounts of lycopene have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer, the most common type of cancer in the U.S. ^{2 3} Research suggests that there are several mechanisms by which lycopene protects the prostate. As a potent fat-soluble antioxidant, lycopene concentrates in the cell membranes, where it protects them from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.1 This is important because the cell membrane protects the cell from toxins while allowing nutrients into the cell and waste products out of the cell. When the membrane is damaged, these crucial functions are inhibited and the cell can become toxic and potentially lead to cancer. Lycopene also seems to support communication between cells and scientists believe that when communication breaks down between cells, diseases like cancer can emerge.⁴ Due to lycopene’s potent antioxidant qualities, it has also been shown to reduce inflammation as well as prevent DNA damage in prostate cells.⁵

Recent research has revealed that lycopene also positively affects hormonal pathways, which influences prostate health.6 All prostate cells are very sensitive to the effects of the hormones testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), commonly known as androgens. These hormones—DHT in particular—stimulate the growth of prostate cells. Lycopene may down regulate the effect that these hormones have on prostate cancer cells.⁶

Tomatoes are by far the best food source of lycopene. And cooking tomatoes, such as in a marinara sauce or ketchup, significantly increases the amount of lycopene that the body can absorb as well as its overall antioxidant activity.⁷ A variety of lycopene supplements are also available. Just remember that lycopene is a fat-soluble compound and in order to best absorb the benefits, whether in food or supplement form, it is best taken/eaten with fat.

Prostate cancer is a growing area of concern in men’s health, and as men age it becomes increasingly important to consider ways to support prostate health. By regularly consuming lycopene from supplements or from foods like tomato sauce, men can provide their prostates with an extra layer of protection.