Lycopene: The Bright Red Nutrient Powering Everyday Wellness
Lycopene is a naturally occurring pigment that gives tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit their vibrant red color. Beyond its visual appeal, Lycopene is widely appreciated for its role in supporting overall wellness. It belongs to the carotenoid family, a group of plant compounds known for their antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from everyday environmental stress.
One of the most interesting aspects of Lycopene is that it becomes more available to the body when foods are cooked. Tomato-based dishes such as sauces, soups, and pastes are excellent sources, making it easy to include this nutrient in daily meals. Since Lycopene is fat-soluble, pairing it with healthy fats like olive oil can enhance absorption.