Fat Interactions

Curcumin is a lipophilic molecule with very low water solubility, and dietary fat dramatically improves its dissolution and incorporation into bile acid micelles for intestinal absorption. Lipidic formulations and meals containing fat increase curcumin's plasma exposure compared with intake on an empty stomach.

Lycopene is a fat-soluble carotenoid whose absorption depends on incorporation into bile acid micelles, which require dietary fat. A landmark study showed adding olive oil to tomatoes increased plasma trans-lycopene by 82%, and avocado co-consumption with tomato salsa increased lycopene AUC 4.4-fold.