Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) - Lycopene Supplementation and Disease Risk

Main findings

The data for lycopene or tomato extract supplementation are predominantly from studies with small sample sizes. Both favorable and neutral outcomes are reported; however, 2 larger RCT studies (n=400 and n=175) indicate a neutral relationship between lycopene supplementation and CVD risk reduction.
Inconclusive evidence for benefits in blood pressure regulation; although combination therapy, including lycopene may provide benefit. Lycopene plus another dietary agent for additive or synergistic effects has not been investigated.
Some evidence for improving oxidative stress status.
Inconclusive evidence for modulation of inflammatory status or endothelial function
Some evidence for effects on platelet function as demonstrated by fresh fruit extracts (FTE).


Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) - Lycopene Supplementation and Disease Risk Main findings The data for lycopene or tomato extract supplementation are predominantly from studies with small sample sizes. Both favorable and neutral outcomes are reported; however, 2 larger RCT studies (n=400 and n=175) indicate a neutral relationship between lycopene supplementation and CVD risk reduction. Inconclusive evidence for benefits in blood pressure regulation; although combination therapy, including lycopene may provide benefit. Lycopene plus another dietary agent for additive or synergistic effects has not been investigated. Some evidence for improving oxidative stress status. Inconclusive evidence for modulation of inflammatory status or endothelial function Some evidence for effects on platelet function as demonstrated by fresh fruit extracts (FTE). Summary of studies and outcomes Number of studies = 18 Risk estimates (RE) = 23 (-) = 14 N = 9 (+) = 0  Risk estimates Risk estimates by Tomato or Lycopene category √GT G. Tom = 0 √PT P. Tom = 1 (-) √FTE FTE = 2 (-) √Lyco Lyco = 11 (-), 9 (N)