Lycopene, a naturally occurring compound that gives fruits and vegetables a red color, is a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system. Although the human body cannot produce lycopene, it is readily available in various foods, such as tomatoes, grapefruit, watermelon, and papayas.

One of the primary ways lycopene supports the immune system is through its antioxidant activity. Antioxidants play a crucial role in supporting the immune system by preventing cellular damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as free radicals. These reactive molecules are a byproduct of metabolism and can also result from exposure to environmental toxins. When ROS levels become excessive, it can lead to a state of oxidative stress, which can damage cells and impair their function, including those involved in immune responses (Palozza et al., 2012).

Lycopene, like other antioxidants, can neutralize these harmful ROS, reducing oxidative stress, protecting immune cells from damage, and preserving their functional integrity. In other words, it helps ensure that immune cells can effectively identify and respond to potential threats such as pathogens (Palozza et al., 2012).

Additionally, research has shown that lycopene has immunomodulatory effects, meaning it can modify the immune response. Studies show that lycopene can enhance immune function by promoting the proliferation of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell crucial for immune responses, and stimulating the production of cytokines, signaling molecules that help regulate the immune response (Kim et al., 2011).

Moreover, it has been suggested that lycopene may modulate the immune response by influencing T-cell function, essential components of the adaptive immune system. A study by Watzl et al. (2000) found that lycopene-rich tomato juice consumption increased T-helper cell proliferation, suggesting that lycopene may enhance adaptive immunity.

On a molecular level, lycopene has been shown to modulate the function of transcription factors such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), a protein complex that plays a critical role in regulating the immune response, including the production of cytokines and the activation of immune cells (Sahin et al., 2016). By influencing NF-κB, lycopene can potentially modulate immune responses and contribute to maintaining immune homeostasis.

Several epidemiological studies have also linked lycopene consumption with a lower risk of chronic diseases and the promotion of healthy aging. (Giovannucci, 2002). 

Research by nutritional scientists into lycopene’s promotion of healthy aging continues as it is and will continue to be one of the most well-studied compounds in nutritional science. 

References:

Palozza P., Parrone N., Catalano A., Simone R., (2012). Tomato Lycopene and Inflammatory Cascade: Basic Interactions and Clinical Implications. Current Medicinal Chemistry, 17(23), 2547-2563.

Kim G.Y., Kim K.H., Lee S.H., Yoon M.S., Lee H.J., Moon D.O., Lee C.M., Ahn S.C., Park Y.C., Park Y.M., (2011). Lycopene suppresses the lipopolysaccharide-induced phenotypic and functional maturation of murine dendritic cells through inhibition of mitogen-activated protein kinases and nuclear factor-κB. Immunology, 128(1pt2), e746-754.

Watzl B., Bub A., Blockhaus M., Herbert B.M., Lührmann P.M., Neuhauser-Berthold M., Rechkemmer G., (2000). Prolonged tomato juice consumption has no effect on cell-mediated immunity of well-nourished elderly men and women. The Journal of Nutrition, 130(7), 1719-1723.

Sahin K., Orhan C., Tuzcu M., Sahin N., (2016). Lycopene: An antioxidant that plays a role in the prevention of obesity and obesity-related chronic diseases. In: Agarwal S., Rao A.V., (eds). Tomato Lycopene and Human Health; Preventing Chronic Diseases. Bentham Science Publishers, pp. 154-167.

Giovannucci E., (2002). A Review of Epidemiologic Studies of Tomatoes, Lycopene, and Prostate Cancer. Experimental Biology and Medicine, 227(10), 852–859.

If you have any questions about the Berkeley Formula Diindolylmethane (DIM) Supplement & Immune System Booster, please feel free to contact our customer service department at 877-777-0719 (9AM-5PM M-F PST) and our representatives will be happy to answer any questions that you may have. We will be glad to share with you why the Berkeley Formula is the DIM supplement of choice by nutritional scientists, medical professionals and biomedical investigators worldwide. 

Note: The information provided in this section of our website is for educational purposes. While the scientific discoveries and clinical developments that we reference in this section may be exciting, they are stepping stones in the studies of Diindolylmethane (DIM) and some of the other nutrients in the Berkeley Immune Support Formula. The explorations of clinical applications for Diindolylmethane and some of the other nutrients within this dietary supplement are an emerging science. Only the US FDA has the authority to recognize a compound as a drug or therapeutic for a particular condition in the US and that occurs after the compound has been thoroughly studied and its efficacy established in four consecutive double-blind human clinical trials. At this point in time, Diindolylmethane and the other nutrients in the Berkeley Immune Support Formula are regarded as dietary supplements and not therapeutics for any specific condition by the US FDA. The Berkeley Immune Support Formula is a nutritional supplement. Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. The Berkeley Immune Support Formula is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.