Lycopene is the carotenoid behind the deep red of a ripe tomato, and one of the most efficient antioxidants in the plant kingdom. Unusually, it becomes more available to the body when tomatoes are cooked and eaten with a little oil, which is why tomato sauces and pastes are such concentrated sources. Watermelon, pink grapefruit and red peppers add to the picture. Long associated with heart and prostate health, lycopene is a compelling reason to enjoy red fruit and vegetables often.
What is Lycopene?
Lycopene is a carotenoid that plays a critical role in supporting heart and prostate health by acting as a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralise free radicals and protect cells, lipoproteins and tissues from oxidative damage. While many general diets overlook it, maintaining optimal levels of Lycopene is frequently tracked by people working to optimize their Heart & prostate health.
Top Foods High in Lycopene
A data-driven breakdown of the foods with the highest concentration of Lycopene per 100 g.
| Food | Lycopene |
|---|---|
| Watermelon | 4.5 mg |
| Tomato | 3 mg |
| Grapefruit | 1.4 mg |
How Lycopene Impacts Heart & prostate health
Research links diets rich in Lycopene to changes in Heart & prostate health. Optimizing intake of these foods can support healthy Heart & prostate health levels via neutralising free radicals and reducing the oxidation of LDL particles, a process linked to healthier arteries, while its accumulation in prostate tissue is associated with support for prostate health.
Scientific references & clinical evidence
This guide is built on peer-reviewed research — verify the primary sources below.
Written by the Nutrition Encyclopedia team · medically reviewed by Dr. Sunaina Tariq, MBBS
Last updated 22 June 2026
How we source & verify data · Medical disclaimer
Nutrition values are approximations compiled from public food-composition databases (USDA FoodData Central) and are provided for educational purposes only — not medical advice.
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