Lycopene is one of the most concentrated carotenoids found in the blood, organs, and tissues of the body. One of the most important health benefits of lycopene is its ability to reduce the risk 
of cancer, particularly cancers of the reproductive tract.
One study in particular from the International Journal of Cancer found that the 75 percent of women who ate the least amount of tomatoes (a rich source of lycopene) were three to five times more at risk for pre-cancerous lesions of the cervix than those who ate a lycopene-rich diet. Another study found that a diet high in lycopene significantly reduced the risk of ovarian cancer in women in premenopause. Investigators suggested that consumption of fruits, vegetables and food items high in carotene and lycopene, particularly raw carrots and tomato sauce, may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.
Help reduce your risk for estrogen-dependent cancers by eating foods high in lycopene, including tomatoes and carrots, as well as red peppers, watermelon, apricots, cantaloupe, pumpkin, guava, and sweet potatoes.
For more information on balancing female hormones and premenopause, visit Dr. Larks Web site.