Lycopene promotes heart and vascular health, supports prostate function in men, and helps maintain overall good health. Some health experts believe the cardio-protective benefits of the Mediterranean diet can be explained at least in part by the inclusion of lycopene-rich foods like tomatoes and tomato-based products. One medium red tomato contains approximately 3 mg of lycopene. However, the amount of natural lycopene in the foods we eat is variable and will change as fruit ripens. Studies also show lycopene is one of the major carotenoids found in the prostate gland, making it important for prostate health.