Lycopene Extract

Lycopene is a carotenoid responsible for the characteristic red color of tomatoes, watermelon, and some red fruits. Its main role is related to its potent antioxidant activity and its ability to protect cells from oxidative damage. It is sold in the form of a concentrated extract, capsules, or as part of multicarotenoid supplements.

Quick facts

  • Ayuda a reducir la peroxidación lipídica, un proceso que daña las membranas celulares.
  • Puede disminuir la expresión de citoquinas proinflamatorias, reduciendo la inflamación crónica de bajo grado implicada en enfermedades metabólicas y cardiovasculares.

WHAT IS IT FOR?

Lycopene is abioactive compoundwhich belongs to the group of carotenoids, but unlike beta-carotene, it does not have provitamin A activity.

Its main mechanism is related to theneutralization of free radicalsand themodulation of inflammatory processesin the body.

Lycopene exerts its protective effects through several pathways, and serves to:

  • Help toreduce lipid peroxidation, a process that damages cell membranes.
  • Decrease the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins(LDL), contributing to cardiovascular health.
  • Decrease the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, reducing chronic low-grade inflammation implicated in metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.
  • Promote the integrity of cell membranesandcould protect DNAagainst mutations.

What are its properties?

Cardiovascular health

Several meta-analyses have shown that lycopenecan help reduce blood pressure and LDL cholesterol levels.

Endothelial function and oxidative stress

In a controlled trial in healthy men, they observedimprovements in blood vessel function and decreased oxidative stressafter eight weeks of supplementation.

Metabolic health and mortality

A recent meta-analysis by Viña et al.,2025 found that higher plasma concentrations and lycopene supplementation are associated withlower risk of metabolic diseases and lower mortality from all causes, although they emphasize that these benefits are enhanced when lycopene is consumed in the context of a healthy diet.

Prevention of skin damage

Rizwan and colleagues in 2011 showed that consumption of lycopene-rich tomatoes for 12 weeksreduced the skin's sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation, suggesting a protective effect against sun damage.

Inflammatory markers and blood lipids

Inoue et al., in 2021 reportedimprovements in HDL levels and reductions in triglyceridesafter prolonged consumption of lycopene. In addition, studies have documentedmild decreases in C-reactive protein and other inflammatory molecules.

How to take?

The doses studied usually varybetween 10 and 30 mg/dayMost of the cardiovascular and antioxidant benefits are seen around 15–25 mg/day.

Regarding the period of use, in clinical trials, the effects are usually assessed from 8 to 12 weeks, although some studies have analyzed longer-term results.

Finally, it is advisabletake it with foods rich in healthy fats(olive oil, avocado, nuts)to improve absorption, since lycopene is fat-soluble.