Lycopene and Tomatoes in Human Nutrition and Health

Book excerpt: Lycopene is a potent antioxidant carotenoid found in fruits and vegetables; particularly high amounts exist in red tomatoes. It is not an essential nutrient for humans, but can be a potential therapeutic agent for preventing several human diseases. Since the publication of the previous book on lycopene, extensive advances have been made with respect to the role of lycopene and tomatoes in human health. Whereas the initial focus of research was on cancer, Lycopene and Tomatoes in Human Nutrition and Health represents the next major step in documenting advances in understanding the chemistry, bioavailability, metabolism; mechanisms of action of lycopene; and its role in preventing human diseases other than cancer as discussed in the various chapters of the book. The book includes chapters that discuss genetic polymorphisms; and lycopene’s relationship to cardiovascular diseases, cardiometabolic diseases, bone health, and other health disorders including male infertility, skin diseases, respiratory disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. The book includes information addressing regulatory aspects of natural health products and, in particular lycopene, presenting industrial insights. The contents of the book are selected carefully to provide the readers with the most current information available on lycopene and tomato bioactives.