There are several important points to note on this research. The first is that the people in this study likely obtained their lycopene from foods and not supplements. It is not known if taking lycopene as a supplement would provide similar benefits.

In general, I am opposed to taking many supplements. I believe that it is far better to consume large amounts of whole foods in the diet program I outline.

It is interesting to note that the lycopene from cooked tomatoes in more bioavailable than raw tomatoes, which is in partial conflict with the principle raw foods are better. However, there are likely some additional beneficial substances, which are lost or destroyed when the tomatoes are cooked. However, by eating lycopene foods with some fat, their availability will be significantly increased as well. It is also likely that people who are on very low-fat diets could have lower levels of lycopene, for this same reason.

It is also important to point out that tomatoes are not "lectin-compatible" for most blood types, if you believe the Eat For Your Blood Type Approach. I am not a huge fan of this system, although I do believe it has some value in fine-tuning one's diet.

The BEST system for determining your ideal foods is the "Listen To Your Body" principle. If YOUR body tells you to avoid eating a food, it is wise to stay away from it. It will generally tell you this in a number of ways. The most common is nausea or digestive disturbances, or a decrease in energy or mental alertness.

Each of us have an individual pattern and if you carefully listen to your body you will be able to find out what your clues are for foods that are not promoting health and wellness in your body.

Below is a table listing the lycopene content of several foods:

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