Antioxidant
Lycopene
Also known as: Lycopene (from tomato extract), tomato lycopene, carotenoid, Tomato extract
Lycopene is a potent red carotenoid from tomatoes and other red fruits with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly studied for cardiovascular and prostate health. It is one of the most biologically active dietary carotenoids.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Primary uses
- Prostate cancer prevention
- Prostate health
- Antioxidant
- Cardiovascular health support
- Antioxidant protection
- Anti-inflammatory support
How it works
- Singlet oxygen quenching and free radical scavenging
- Inhibition of cell proliferation pathways
- Anti-inflammatory via NF-κB pathway modulation
- LDL oxidation prevention
Dosage
- Typical range
- 10–30 mg daily
- Timing
- With meals containing dietary fat
- With food
- Critical for absorption—lycopene is lipophilic; cis-lycopene (heat-treated forms) may have superior bioavailability
- Duration
- Steady-state tissue accumulation requires 2–4 weeks; prostate and cardiovascular benefits may require 8–12 weeks
- Special populations
- Safe in pregnancy; no pediatric contraindications
Forms
- Tomato extract
- Softgels
- Synthetic lycopene
- Lycopene isolate (beadlet or oleoresin)· 70/100
Safety
Products containing Lycopene
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Lycopene on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
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Evidence notes
Good epidemiological and mechanistic evidence; observational studies show associations with cardiovascular and prostate health. RCT evidence is moderate but supports benefits at 10–30 mg/day. Bioavailability is enhanced with heat and dietary fat.
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Related in Antioxidant
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.