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Organic Tomato Powder

Also known as: Tomato powder, Dried tomato, Tomato extract, Solanum lycopersicum (Tomato Powder)

Overview

Tomato powder is a dried and powdered form of tomatoes (_Solanum lycopersicum_), concentrated with bioactive compounds like lycopene, beta-carotene, phytoene, and phytofluene. It serves as a dietary supplement to boost antioxidant intake and support overall health. Rich in vitamins A and C, and minerals, tomato powder is used to enhance antioxidant defenses and potentially aid in recovery from physical exercise. Processing methods, such as freeze-drying, significantly impact nutrient retention. Research suggests that tomato powder may offer benefits beyond isolated lycopene supplements, particularly in reducing oxidative stress. While research is ongoing, current evidence supports its role as a valuable nutritional supplement, especially for athletes and those seeking enhanced antioxidant protection. The quality of available evidence is generally good, with several randomized controlled trials and studies on the physicochemical properties of tomato powder.

Benefits

Tomato powder primarily enhances antioxidant capacity and reduces lipid peroxidation. Studies show a 12% increase in total antioxidant capacity and a significant reduction in exercise-induced lipid peroxidation markers (MDA and 8-isoprostane), outperforming pure lycopene supplements. Specifically, 8-isoprostane levels increased by 9% with tomato powder versus 24% with placebo, and MDA levels increased by 20% with tomato powder versus 51% with placebo in one study. It is also a rich source of vitamins A and C, lycopene, and other carotenoids, contributing to overall nutritional intake. The antioxidants in tomato powder may also support cardiovascular health, though direct evidence is limited. Athletes may particularly benefit from its ability to mitigate oxidative stress induced by intense exercise. These benefits were observed after a 1-week supplementation period.

How it works

Tomato powder works through its antioxidant components, primarily lycopene and other carotenoids, to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. These antioxidants interact with free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS), enhancing the body's antioxidant defenses and potentially reducing damage to cells and tissues. The bioavailability of these antioxidants is influenced by processing methods, with freeze-drying and specific pretreatments enhancing nutrient retention. By scavenging free radicals, tomato powder supports cellular health and reduces the impact of oxidative stress on various body systems.

Side effects

Tomato powder is generally considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts. Common side effects are not reported in the literature. Uncommon side effects may include potential gastrointestinal discomfort, though this is not well-documented. Rare side effects are not significant in available studies. There are no known significant drug interactions, but caution should be exercised when combining with other antioxidants or medications. Contraindications are not specifically identified, but individuals with allergies to tomatoes or related components should avoid use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before using any new supplement to ensure safety.

Dosage

While a minimum effective dose is not well-established, studies have used servings containing 30 mg of lycopene along with other bioactive compounds. The optimal dosage range is not clearly defined, but the combination of lycopene and other carotenoids appears more effective than isolated lycopene. No maximum safe dose has been established, but excessive consumption could potentially lead to gastrointestinal issues. It can be taken at any time, but benefits may be more pronounced when taken before or after physical exercise. Freeze-dried tomato powder may retain more nutritional value. Bioavailability can be enhanced by proper processing and storage methods. No specific cofactors are required, but a balanced diet can support absorption.

FAQs

Is tomato powder safe to consume?

Tomato powder is generally safe, but individuals with allergies or sensitivities to tomatoes should be cautious.

When is the best time to take tomato powder?

It can be taken at any time, but may be beneficial around physical activity to help reduce oxidative stress.

What are the expected results from taking tomato powder?

Users may experience enhanced antioxidant capacity and reduced oxidative stress markers, contributing to overall health.

Is isolated lycopene as effective as tomato powder?

Evidence suggests that the combination of bioactive compounds in tomato powder is more effective than isolated lycopene.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33639967/ – This randomized, double-blinded, crossover study with 11 well-trained male athletes found that tomato powder enhanced total antioxidant capacity and reduced exercise-induced lipid peroxidation more effectively than pure lycopene supplements after a 1-week supplementation period. The study highlights the benefits of tomato powder's complex nutrient profile over isolated lycopene for athletes.
https://www.foodscijournal.com/articles/afns-aid1038.php – This review discusses the effects of pretreatments and drying methods on tomato powder, noting that freeze-drying and certain pretreatments (e.g., osmotic dehydration) retain more nutritional value compared to hot-air drying. The review emphasizes the importance of processing techniques in preserving the beneficial compounds in tomato powder.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10942912.2020.1758716 – This experimental study focused on the physicochemical and nutraceutical properties of tomato powder, revealing that freeze-dried tomato powder showed higher ash, total sugar, ascorbic acid, lycopene, and β-carotene contents compared to hot-air-dried samples. The findings underscore the impact of drying methods on the nutritional composition of tomato powder.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/9/1/73 – This study investigates the impact of different drying methods on the quality of tomato powder, finding that freeze-drying preserves more nutrients and bioactive compounds compared to other methods. The research provides valuable insights into optimizing the production of tomato powder to maximize its health benefits.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PjkgpOGRVg – This YouTube video discusses the benefits of tomato powder, highlighting its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. While not a peer-reviewed source, it provides a general overview of the topic.