Epidemiology, Mechanism and Intervention Studies of Carotenoids

Bui Thinh, Department of Natural Sciences, Hong Duc University, Thanh Hoa, Vietnam, Email: Buithinh33@gmail.com

Received: 02-May-2023, Manuscript No. EJMOAMS-23-101632; Editor assigned: 08-May-2023, Pre QC No. EJMOAMS-23-101632 (PQ); Reviewed: 22-May-2023, QC No. EJMOAMS-23-101632; Revised: 29-May-2023, Manuscript No. EJMOAMS-23-101632 (R); Published: 05-Jun-2023

About the Study

Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Emerging evidence suggests that carotenoids, a group of natural pigments found in fruits and vegetables, may play a significant role in promoting cardiovascular health.

Carotenoids

Carotenoids are a diverse group of bioactive compounds known for their vibrant colors and antioxidant properties. They are commonly found in fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, tomatoes, spinach, and oranges. Carotenoids can be further classified into two subgroups: carotenes (such as beta-carotene) and xanthophylls (such as lutein and zeaxanthin). Beyond their role as antioxidants, carotenoids possess other biological functions, including anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-cancer activities.

Mechanisms of action

Carotenoids exhibit several mechanisms of action that could potentially benefit cardiovascular health. Firstly, their antioxidant properties enable them to neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, a key factor in the development of CVDs. Additionally, carotenoids may modulate inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory markers and reducing the expression of adhesion molecules involved in atherosclerosis. Some carotenoids, such as lycopene, have been shown to improve lipid profiles by decreasing Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol oxidation and promoting High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol metabolism. Furthermore, carotenoids may enhance endothelial function, prevent platelet aggregation, and regulate blood pressure, contributing to the maintenance of cardiovascular health. Dietary carotenoids are thought to provide health benefits in decreasing the risk of disease, particularly certain cancers and eye disease. The carotenoids that have been most studied in this regard are beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin.

Epidemiological evidence

Studies have provided valuable insights into the association between carotenoids and cardiovascular health. Numerous cohort studies and meta-analyses have reported an inverse relationship between carotenoid intake or blood levels and the risk of CVDs, including coronary heart disease and stroke. High dietary intake of specific carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin, has been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular events. Moreover, some studies suggest that certain carotenoids may have a dose-response relationship with cardiovascular health, indicating that higher intakes or blood levels may confer greater benefits.

Intervention studies and clinical trials

Although epidemiological evidence is valuable, interventional studies and clinical trials are crucial to establishing causality. Several randomized controlled trials have investigated the effects of carotenoid supplementation on cardiovascular health markers. Some trials have demonstrated favorable outcomes, including improvements in lipid profiles, reductions in oxidative stress, and enhancement of endothelial function. However, conflicting results have also been reported, highlighting the need for further research to elucidate the optimal dosage, duration, and specific carotenoids that may be most beneficial.

Their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other biological properties make them potential allies in the prevention and management of CVDs. Epidemiological studies have consistently shown an inverse association between carotenoid intake or blood levels and the risk of cardiovascular events. While intervention studies have produced mixed results, they indicate the potential benefits of carotenoid supplementation in improving cardiovascular health markers. However, more research is needed to determine optimal dosages, formulations, and specific carotenoids for maximum efficacy. Emphasizing a diet rich in carotenoid-containing fruits and vegetables remains a prudent recommendation for overall cardiovascular health promotion.

Copyright: © 2023 The Authors. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/). This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.