Lycopene properties sources benefits applications
On lycopene
Lycopene is unique, exists in various sources, has many benefits, and is widely used.
First talk about its properties. Lycopene is a bright color, mostly red or orange red. It is a fat-soluble pigment with good solubility in oil, but it is insoluble in water. The chemical structure has a long chain conjugated double bond, which gives it special rationalization. Poor stability, easy to decompose under the influence of light, heat and oxygen. Under high temperature, strong light or aerobic environment, its conjugated double bond is easy to break, resulting in structural changes, decreased color and activity.
Describe its source again. There are many sources of lycopene, and tomato is its main source. Ripe tomatoes contain a lot of lycopene, and the redder the color, the higher the content. Processed tomato products, such as ketchup, tomato juice, lycopene soft capsules, etc., are also a good way to ingest. In addition to tomatoes, watermelon, grapefruit, guava and other fruits also contain a certain amount of lycopene. Although the content is slightly lower than that of tomatoes, daily consumption can also supplement the human body.
Furthermore, in terms of its benefits. Lycopene has strong antioxidant properties, which can scavenge free radicals in the body and prevent cells from being damaged by free radicals. This antioxidant function can delay cell aging and maintain normal physiological functions of cells. It is beneficial to cardiovascular health, can reduce the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, and prevent atherosclerosis. And it may inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells, and has certain anti-cancer potential. Although it has not been confirmed as an anti-cancer effect, it has positive significance in cancer prevention. In addition, it may be beneficial to eye health and can prevent eye diseases such as macular retinopathy.
As for application, in the food field, it is often used as a natural pigment to add to food, such as beverages, candies, baked goods, etc., to increase the color and attractiveness of food. It is also used as a functional ingredient in health foods to make lycopene capsules, oral liquids, etc., for health care by health-conscious people. In the pharmaceutical field, it is used to develop related drugs or assist in the treatment of diseases due to its antioxidant, anti-cancer In the field of cosmetics, its antioxidant properties are used to add skin care products to prevent skin aging, improve skin quality, and increase skin luster and elasticity.
Lycopene has important value in food, medicine, and beauty in human life due to its unique properties, rich sources, many benefits, and wide application.
