Research: A whole tomato formulation to combat Chronic Degenerative Diseases

Chronic degenerative diseases (CDCs), such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, are a growing global health concern. A primary underlying mechanism contributing to these conditions is chronic, low-grade inflammation, often fueled by an excess of free radicals – unstable molecules that damage cells. While lifestyle interventions like regular exercise and a diet rich in antioxidants, particularly the Mediterranean Diet, are recommended for prevention, adherence can be challenging for many individuals.

Consuming whole tomatoes has proven to be more effective in preventing age-related CDCs than simply supplementing with lycopene, the major carotenoid antioxidant found in tomatoes. This is because whole tomatoes offer a wider array of health-promoting phytonutrients, especially when combined with olive oil polyphenols, both of which are recognized for their beneficial "green signature" and contribution to a circular economy.

Researchers in Italy have developed a unique, EU-patented heat processing method under controlled pressure to create a whole tomato puree (European Patent No. 3 052 113 (14 772 134.4)). This process maximizes the antioxidant potential of tomatoes by converting trans-lycopene, the naturally occurring form, into cis-lycopene, the biologically active isomer. Simultaneously, it promotes the formation of Amadori compounds, further enhancing the health-promoting properties of the tomato.

Lycoprozen: A Functional Food with Superior Properties
The resulting product, marketed as "Lycoprozen," is a red powder consisting of 98% tomato nutrients and 2% olive wastewater nutrients, retaining the sensory properties of tomatoes for palatability. This advanced "functional food" exhibits antioxidant activity comparable to N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a pharmaceutical antioxidant, and demonstrates anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory, animal, and human clinical settings. It also interferes with metabolic pathways associated with inflammation, cell transformation, and the toxicity of environmental pollutants.

Key Advantages of Lycoprozen:

• Enhanced Lycopene Bioavailability: The specific processing method increases the concentration of cis-lycopene, the more readily absorbed form, compared to regular tomato products.
• Synergistic Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects: The combination of tomato nutrients and olive wastewater polyphenols provides a broader spectrum of health benefits.
• High Concentration of Bioactive Compounds: One 5g sachet of Lycoprozen delivers the equivalent antioxidant activity of 120g of fresh red tomatoes, with only 17 kcal and a low glycemic index.
• Unique Composition: Lycoprozen is the only product that supplies pre-formed cis-lycopene and olive polyphenols in known concentrations.
• Versatility and Safety: It is suitable for vegans and individuals with celiac disease and can be easily incorporated into various culinary preparations without losing its activity. It has no known side effects associated with regular tomato consumption.
• Clinical Relevance: Studies suggest that Lycoprozen may be a valuable tool in managing chronic diseases by targeting underlying inflammatory processes and cellular dysfunction.

Lycoprozen represents a significant advancement in harnessing the health benefits of tomatoes. The unique processing method and combination of ingredients create a potent, bioavailable, and versatile nutritional supplement that can contribute to the prevention and management of chronic degenerative diseases. Lycoprozen is presently available to the public in pharmacies, health stores and Amazon.

Reference:
Natali PG, Piantelli M, Sottini A, Eufemi M, Banfi C and Imberti L (2025) A step forward in enhancing the health-promoting properties of whole tomato as a functional food to lower the impact of non-communicable diseases. Front. Nutr. 12:1519905. DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2025.1519905