Estudio de los beneficios del consumo de licopeno como suplemento alimenticio

Abstract

A diet rich in foods containing carotenoids is associated with health benefits. Interest in lycopene is growing rapidly because it is a natural pigment characterized by high antioxidant potential and unique physicochemical structures that contribute to specific biological properties related to the red color present in tomatoes and tomato products. In plant sources where lycopene is found, the isomer is predominantly all-trans; however, the most bioavailable form is cis - lycopene. In the results of the review, the mechanisms of action of lycopene, bioactivity, digestive absorption, metabolism, transport and stability are highlighted. The comprehensive study of food seen as a food matrix, involves not only the nutritional aspect, but also all those elements that can be part of the diet. Due to the above, various publications show an association between the consumption of lycopene in the diet and the preventive role of certain types of diseases, where the reduction of the risk of cardiovascular diseases, cancer and other ailments is related. However, as a food supplement, lycopene is packaged in dark bottles to achieve protection against light exposure, because it can undergo degradation processes and loss of bioactivity; opting for a lycopene supplement will provide the right amount of this antioxidant, there is no consensus on the recommended daily dose, which is in the range of 7 to 70 milligrams per day.