Lycopene: A Potent Antioxidant with Multiple Health Benefits

Abstract

Lycopene is a naturally occurring carotenoid predominantly found in tomatoes and tomato-based products. Like other phytochemicals, it exhibits health bene1cial biological activities that can be exploited when it is used as a dietary supplement. In vitro and in vivo, lycopene has been demonstrated to mitigate oxidative stress-induced metabolic dysfunctions and diseases including in2ammation, obesity, and diabetes mellitus. Lycopene has been shown to alleviate metabolic diseases that a3ect the bone, eye, kidney, liver, lungs, heart, and nervous system. ,is review presents the state of the art regarding lycopene’s health bene1ts and its potential applications in health system delivery. Furthermore, lycopene’s protective e3ects against toxins, safety in its use, and possible toxicity are explored.