Relationship: Diabetic Retinopathy and lycopene

Evidence supporting the use of: Lycopene
For the health condition: Diabetic Retinopathy

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Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lycopene, a carotenoid antioxidant found primarily in tomatoes, has been studied for its potential role in supporting eye health, including diabetic retinopathy (DR). The scientific rationale for using lycopene in DR stems from its strong antioxidant properties, which may help counteract the oxidative stress and inflammation implicated in the pathogenesis of DR. Oxidative damage to retinal cells is a key factor in the progression of diabetic retinopathy, and antioxidants like lycopene could theoretically offer protective benefits.

Some preclinical studies (in vitro and animal models) have demonstrated that lycopene supplementation can reduce oxidative stress markers in retinal tissue and may help prevent cell apoptosis in diabetic conditions. For example, animal studies have shown that lycopene administration decreases retinal oxidative stress, inhibits inflammatory cytokines, and may mitigate the progression of microvascular damage typically seen in DR.

However, clinical research in humans is limited. Few small-scale clinical trials or observational studies have examined lycopene levels in patients with DR or tested its supplementation directly for this condition. The available human data are insufficient to draw strong conclusions about efficacy. Thus, while there is a scientific basis and some preliminary research supporting lycopene’s use for diabetic retinopathy, robust clinical validation is lacking, and its use is not yet standard or widely recommended in medical guidelines. More high-quality, large-scale clinical trials are needed to establish lycopene’s role in the management or prevention of diabetic retinopathy.

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Other health conditions supported by lycopene

Alzheimer's Disease
Benign Prostate Hyperplasia
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cervical Dysplasia
Cholesterol (high)
Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy
Hypertension
Prostatitis
Triglycerides (high)
Wrinkles

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Evidence supporting the use of: Lycopene
For the health condition: Diabetic Retinopathy

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Diabetic Retinopathy

Other health conditions supported by lycopene

Products containing lycopene

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: LycopeneFor the health condition: Diabetic Retinopathy

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Diabetic Retinopathy

Other health conditions supported by lycopene

Products containing lycopene

Evidence supporting the use of: Lycopene
For the health condition: Diabetic Retinopathy