The role of carotenoids in bone health-A narrative review

Nutrition. 2024 Mar:119:112306. doi: 10.1016/j.nut.2023.112306. Epub 2023 Dec 1.

Abstract

Osteoporosis constitutes a serious challenge for public health. Dietary patterns belong to important, modifiable risk factors of this disease. Therefore, what and in what quantities we consume on a daily basis are extremely relevant. It is commonly known that bone health is positively affected by vitamins (e.g., vitamin D and vitamin K) as well as mineral components (e.g., calcium and magnesium). However, the human diet consists of many other groups of compounds that exhibit a potential antiosteoporotic and supporting bone-building effect. These dietary components include carotenoids. This paper presents a broad review of studies on the influence of particular carotenoids (β-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, and lycopene) on bones. The paper discusses up-to-date in vitro experiments and research on animal models and presents how the results translate into clinical effect in humans.

Keywords: Fractures; Lycopene; Osteoporosis; Postmenopausal women; Β-Carotene; β-Cryptoxanthin.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bone Density*
  • Carotenoids* / pharmacology
  • Diet
  • Humans
  • Lutein / pharmacology
  • Lycopene
  • Vitamins
  • Zeaxanthins
  • beta Carotene

Substances

  • Carotenoids
  • Lycopene
  • beta Carotene
  • Lutein
  • Zeaxanthins
  • Vitamins