The Sources and Benefits of Lycopene Lycopene is the antioxidant found primarily in tomato products. It is responsible for their red coloring. Lycopene is another well known antioxidant of the caroteniods. In studies, lycopene has been shown to reduce the risk of some types of cancer and coronary heart disease. Some studies have also shown that lycopene has the ability to suppress tumors.
Beta carotene is one of the most well known antioxidants of the carotenoids.
Carotenoids are natural pigments that are synthesized by plants and are responsible for the bright colors of various fruits and vegetables. There are over 500 different types of carotenoids. Studies have shown that intake of caroteniods lowers the risk of developing various types of cancer. Caroteniods give fruits and vegetables their deep orange color, yellow, red and dark green color. Eating foods rich in beta carotene and other carotenoids may reduce the risk for heart disease and cancer.