Lycopene Rich Fruits and Vegetables

Lycopene is a compound that gives certain fruits and vegetables their color. It is a carotenoid and one of the antioxidants with various claims of health promoting properties including reduction in incidence of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and macular degeneration. It is widely known for its protective action against prostate cancer.

Tomatoes are the best-known produce to contain lycopene. Here are more fruits and vegetables which can deliver this carotenoid.

  1. Pink Guava - 5203 mcg

  2. Watermelon - 4532 mcg

  3. Japanese Persimmon - 159 mcg

  4. Grapefruit - 1135 mcg

  5. Tomatoes -3041 mcg

  6. Bell Peppers - 484 mcg

  7. Asparagus - 30 mcg

  8. Red Cabbage - 20 mcg

red cabbage by Rick Heath.
image by Rick Heath via Flickr cc
  
9. Carrots - 1 mcg  

* Nutrient data source: USDA

© K Kristie