Most lycopene food supplements on the market are synthetic forms, which is why they may appear to be competitively priced. As firm believers in naturally sourced ingredients where possible, we would choose to launch a natural form product. However, the cost of raw materials would mean our retail price would far exceed current synthetic products, and therefore we would struggle to compete.
Lycopene can be found in high levels in processed tomato products; tinned tomatoes, tomato sauces, ketchup (2.5mg of lycopene per tablespoon), tomato juice/concentrate, tomato puree. The cooking process generally improves the bioavailability of lycopene, allowing for more retention of this nutrient in the body when ingested. Although there is no set recommended daily value for lycopene it is thought between 5-10mg a day may be useful. The highest concentrations of lycopene can be found in the liver, testes, adrenal glands and adipose (fat) tissue. Lower concentrations are stored in the kidneys, ovaries, lungs and prostate.
We looked back to the science and how common place lycopene is in the average diet. Most people consume one or more of the tomato-based products on a daily/regular basis, so we question whether supplementation is necessary?
What is lycopene commonly used for?
Those buying lycopene food supplements are likely to be taking them for antioxidant support.
What is lycopene?
Lycopene is part of the carotenoid family which is a class of plant-based pigments responsible for the bright red, yellow and orange colour found in the skins of fruit and vegetables, such as tomatoes, but it is not present in strawberries or cherries. Extensive studies into this nutrient have spanned over seventy years with tomatoes being the predominant focus of attention.
What are the alternatives?
As we’ve learnt, lycopene is readily available in processed tomato-based products. However, if you are considering supplementing your diet with specific nutrients to support a particular health concern, you may consider browsing the following categories:
Final thought
With lycopene being found in high levels in tomato-based products cheaply, and the alternative; supplements being mainly synthetic in form, we recommend anyone enquiring in to lycopene should consider dietary sources in favour of food supplements, until such a time when a reasonably priced, natural based formula is available.
Further reading… why not browse our Blog articles to find out more about how to support a healthy lifestyle.
Need FREE confidential nutrition advice? Why not contact our Nutrition Advice Team.
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Keri
Keri Filtness has worked in the Nutrition Industry for 19 years. She is regularly called upon for her professional comments on health and nutrition related news. Her opinions have been featured by BBC3, Prima, Vitality, The Mirror, Woman’s Own and Cycling Weekly, amongst others. She has also worked one to one with journalists, analysing their diets and health concerns and recommending changes and additions, where appropriate.
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