Carotenoids are a class of natural fat–soluble pigments found principally in plants. They have potential antioxidant biological properties due to their chemical structure and interaction with biological membranes. The most abundant carotenoids in the diet are beta–carotene, lycopene, lutein, beta–cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, and astaxanthin. Numerous epidemiologic studies have supported the hypothesis that antioxidants could be used as an inexpensive means of prevention, and possibly treatment, of cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this review is to examine the published studies about the use of carotenoids, especially lycopene and astaxanthin, in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Current Atherosclerosis Reports, 11/13/09
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