Dietary Carotenoids for Human Health

Dear Colleagues,

Non-transmissible chronic diseases (NTCDs) remain a global concern, driven by persistent inflammation and poor dietary habits. Recent research has highlighted the significant role of carotenoids, fat-soluble pigments found in a wide variety of plants but also in animals, algae, fungi, and bacteria, in mitigating several NTCDs, including metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers. The most significant aspects of carotenoids in the human diet are their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and provitamin A activities. The most researched carotenoids in diets and commonly occurring in the blood are β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein, and α-carotene, with β-carotene comprising the major portion of provitamin A. Recently, phytoene and phytofluene have also become increasingly significant in the human diet. Additionally, it is important to consider the factors that affect the content in foods and the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of carotenoids as these determine their effectiveness in promoting health. Numerous preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated the importance of carotenoid-rich diets in disease prevention and health promotion. For this Special Issue, authors are encouraged to contribute original research on the bioavailability, mechanisms, and health benefits of dietary carotenoids in human and animal studies, as well as comprehensive reviews and meta-analyses.

Dr. Elena Rodríguez Rodríguez
Dr. Begoña Olmedilla-Alonso
Guest Editors

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