Can Lycopene Save Your Brain?

The red pigment in fruits and vegetables reveals varied benefits against several diseases

Foods rich in lycopene are generally red in color, though asparagus bucks the rule. marilyn barbone/Shutterstock

Did you know that guava and tomato are just two of the lycopene-rich fruits and vegetables that can protect your brain and reduce your risks for cancer, heart disease, and bone fractures?

Lycopene is the pigment in red fruits and vegetables like pink guava and tomatoes. It is an important nutrient scientists are currently testing in the prevention and suppression of neurodegenerative diseases. Past research has shown lycopene to have antioxidant properties, which are effective in fighting other diseases such as cancer, precursors to heart diseases, and bone conditions.

Neurodegenerative Disease

Lycopene demonstrated antioxidant properties in protecting the neural system in vitro and the consumption of lycopene-rich fruits and vegetables is recommended as a preventive strategy for neurodegenerative diseases, according to a review and meta-analysis published in Atherosclerosis.