Health-enhancing effect of lycopene based on the regulation of intestinal microbiota

Abstract:

Lycopene, which is rich in tomatoes, has diverse functions and high nutritional value. Thus, it is of great significance to explore the health-enhancing effect of lycopene through intestinal microbiota and its mechanism. In this review, we summarized the physicochemical properties, digestion, absorption, and metabolism of lycopene, and particularly the influence of lycopene on the types, quantity, and metabolites of gut microbiota in the host. Furthermore, we discussed the intervention of gut microbiota in host inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and cancer development under the regulation of lycopene. This review may provide ideas and directions for the future exploration of tomato nutrition and product development.