Improving the Bioaccessibility and Bioavailability of Carotenoids by Means of Nanostructured Delivery Systems: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Carotenoids are bioactive compounds provided by the diet playing a key role in maintaining human health. Therefore, they should be ingested daily in an adequate amount. However, even a varied and well-balanced diet does not guarantee an adequate intake, as both the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of the compounds significantly affect their absorption. This review summarizes the main results achieved in improving the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of carotenoids by means of nanostructured delivery systems, discussing in detail the available lipid-based and biopolymeric nanocarriers at present, with a focus on their formulation and functional efficiency. Although the toxicity profile of these innovative delivery systems is not fully understood, especially for long-term intake, these systems are an effective and valuable approach to increase the availability of compounds of nutritional interest.

Genotype and ripening method affect carotenoid content and bio-accessibility in banana

“…67,68 Our findings align with several studies, suggesting an intrinsic correlation between resistant starch and bioaccessible carotenoid content. 69–71…”

Carotenoids Diet: Digestion, Gut Microbiota Modulation, and Inflammatory Diseases

“…The dietary composition also has a significant effect on the bioavailability of carotenoids [ 36 ]. Carotenoids are lipophilic compounds and for this reason their bioavailability increases when they are consumed allied with a fat source [ 38 ], but decreases when they are consumed with dietary fibre such as pectin [ 39 ].…”

Role of carotenoids in adipose tissue through the AMPK-mediated pathway

“…1 α-Carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin are the main carotenes in human plasma. 2 Some carotenes can be converted into retinoids with provitamin A activity, while xanthophylls have oxygen atoms in their structure. Both carotenoids are involved in many biological activities, e.g.…”