Carotenoids lower lipid oxidation and DNA damage in middle-aged men

The study looked at 296 healthy middle-aged men with an average age of 50.5 years and body mass index (BMI) of 25.8 kg/m2.

The researchers from the Federal University of Viçosa and the Federal University of São João del-Rei in Brazil looked at various biomarkers to assess the potential relationship between carotenoid intake and lipid and oxidative stress markers.

They looked at five carotenoid types: b-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein plus zeaxanthin, b-carotene and a-carotene. All carotenoids, particularly b-carotene, impacted the lipid and oxidative stress markers.

The results suggested a significant inverse association between non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and the consumption of lutein plus zeaxanthin, b-carotene, a-carotene and total carotenoid. While the other lipid marker used, the Castelli index, decreased as the daily intake of lycopene, b-carotene and total carotenoids increased.

The intakes were based on the results of a food frequency questionnaire on the participant’s habitual intakes from the previous six months.

The 105-items questionnaire included the food groups: milk and dairy products, fats, breads and bread substitutes, cereals, fruits, legumes, vegetables, meats, eggs, beverages and sweets. 

Individuals using vitamin supplements were excluded. 

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Source: British Journal of Nutrition​

Published online ahead of print, doi:10.1017/S0007114515001622​​

“Carotenoid consumption is related to lower lipid oxidation and DNA damage in middle-aged men”​

Authors: P. G. Cocate, A. J. Natali, R. C. G. Alfenas, A. de Oliveira, E. C. dos Santos ​and H. H. M. Hermsdorff