Did You Eat Your Lycopene Today? Food as medicine? Increasingly researchers are identifying substances in food that may have special health-promoting benefits beyond those we have always known. Lycopene is one such substance. Found in tomatoes, watermelon and pink grapefruit, it is touted as a powerful anti- oxidant that may help reduce the risk of heart disease and various cancers. Lycopene works by preventing damage and repairing injured cells. Studies are still being conducted to determine how much lycopene is effective. Fresh tomatoes are the richest source of lycopene, but cooking tomatoes makes lycopene easier for your body to use.

As researchers continue to study lycopene, keep in mind that foods are very complex and offer multiple benefits. Variety in the diet remains critical for optimal health. Until more is known about lycopene, enjoy the fresh taste of tomatoes but also try these options for boosting your intake:

• Slice fresh tomatoes, drizzle with vinaigrette and a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan
• Have a simple lettuce and tomato salad with Caribbean vinaigrette
• Make a tomato-rich sauce for your pasta
• Use tomato paste and canned tomatoes in homemade soups
• Make homemade salsa with canned diced tomatoes and peppers
• Add pink grapefruit or watermelon to your next fruit salad