Short-term Lycopersicum esculentum consumption may increase plasma high density lipoproteins and decrease oxidative stress

Tomato has a high antioxidant capacity due to its high content of vitamin C, vitamin E and lycopene that is a powerful free radical scavenger. However, the effects of tomato on plasma lipoproteins is not well known, and there is little evidence about the relationship between tomato consumption and oxidative state changes in humans. To assess in vivo the effects of dietary supplementation with pure concentrated tomato juice on short term changes in oxidative state and plasma lipoproteins in healthy volunteers. Seventeen healthy volunteers were studied. They received a supplement of pure tomato juice during 7 days. At baseline, at the end of the supplementarion period and eight days after the end of the supplementation, a blood sample was drawn to measure total antioxidant capacity (TRAP), enzymatic antioxidants (catalase and superoxide dismutase), non-enzimatic antioxidants (lycopene and a-tocopherol) and plasma lipoproteins. Lycopene level increased early and significantly in comparison with basal levels (48%; p < 0.05). TRAP, catalase and superoxide dismutase did not change significantly. HDL cholesterol increased significantly in 5.6+/-4.3 mg/dL (p < 0.002) on the second sampling period, improving the ratio cholesterol/HDL. It returned to baseline in the third period. Dietary supplementation of concentrated tomato juice significantly increases lycopene levels and HDL cholesterol. Non significant changes observed in TRAP, catalase and superoxide dismutase were observed during the supplementation period.