Tomato Nutrient Complex Effect on Blood Pressure (P06-112-19)
Abstract Objectives Examine the effect of a carotenoid-rich Tomato Nutrient Complex on blood pressure and perform a dose-response analysis and uncover the optimal effective supplementation dose in maintaining blood pressure within normal range among individuals with systolic blood pressure between 130–140 mmHg, otherwise healthy subjects. Methods In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, different doses of the Tomato Nutrient Complex were examined, corresponding to 5 mg, 15 mg, and 30 mg lycopene. The effect of the tomato-derived treatment was compared with 15 mg of synthetic Lycopene and placebo over 8 weeks of treatment. In addition, we analyzed the bioavailability of the carotenoids following treatment with different doses of the Tomato Nutrient Complex in a group of 25 healthy volunteers. Volunteers were treated for four weeks with Tomato Nutrient Complex providing 2, 5 and 15 mg lycopene. Results Results indicate that treatment for 8 weeks with Tomato Nutrient Complex standardized to contain 15 mg or 30 mg of lycopene was associated with statistically significant reductions in mean SBP of 9.7 mmHg and 7 mmHg compared to baseline values respectively. Treatment with the lower dose Tomato Nutrient Complex standardized for 5 mg of lycopene, or treatment with 15 mg of synthetic lycopene as a standalone did not show a significant effect. In parallel, we analyzed the bioavailability of the carotenoids in healthy subjects. In a group of 25 healthy volunteers treated for 4 weeks with different doses of the Tomato Nutrient Complex. we identified a dose dependent and significant increase in blood level of lycopene, phytoene, and phytofluene. Conclusions Overall, the results suggest that the carotenoids in the Tomato Nutrient Complex are well absorbed in a dose dependent manner and that only the carotenoid levels achieved by the dose corresponding to 15 mg lycopene or more, is correlated to a beneficial effect on systolic blood pressure while lower doses and standalone lycopene are not enough to drive the effect. Funding Sources Lycored.