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Lycopene/Nutrient Depletion:- Alcohol (ethanol)Alcohol (ethanol): The serum concentrations of some carotenoids are influenced by alcohol consumption, and it has been theorized that lycopene may also be subject to this interaction. However, a study in 12 healthy, nonsmoking men found that the intake of red wine, beer, or spirits had no significant effect on serum lycopene levels (38; 39).
- ?-carotene?-carotene: There is conflicting evidence regarding the interaction of ?-carotene and lycopene. In human studies, concomitant ingestion of lycopene and ?-carotene has been reported to increase lycopene absorption (78; 79). Other investigations have found ?-carotene to have no effect on lycopene serum levels (80; 81; 82; 66; 83; 84). In human study, subjects receiving ?-carotene supplements had a reduced concentration of lycopene in an assay of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) (85). The precise nature of this potential interaction is currently unclear.
- LipidsLipids: In clinical study, treatment with LycoRed® (containing 2,000mcg lycopene) for six months resulted in significant decreases in total cholesterol (TC) and LDL and an increase in high-density lipoproteins (HDL); however, triglyceride levels showed a smaller though significant increase at six months, but not at three months (23).
- NicotineNicotine: Conflicting evidence exists regarding the influence of cigarette smoking on lycopene levels (58; 59; 60; 61). While not consistent, it appears that lycopene serum concentrations, unlike other carotenoids, are not influenced by cigarette smoking (60; 62; 63; 46; 64; 38).
- Probucol (available in Canada, not commercially available in the United States)Probucol (available in Canada, not commercially available in the United States): In clinical study, probucol administration was associated with a statistically significant decrease in serum carotenoid levels in 303 hypercholesterolemic patients (42). It is not clear if these changes in carotenoid levels were harmful, beneficial, or neither. Although supplementation with carotenoids such as lycopene may offset these observed reductions, the potential benefits of supplementation are not clear.
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Copyright © 2011 Natural Standard (www.naturalstandard.com)
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The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.
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