Beta-carotene is a pigment found in plants that gives them their color. The name beta-carotene is derived from the Latin name for carrot. It gives yellow and orange fruits and vegetables their rich hues. In the body, beta-carotene converts into vitamin A (retinol). We need vitamin A for good vision and eye health, a strong immune system, and healthy skin and mucous membranes.
What are some benefits of beta-carotene?
• Antioxidant properties. Beta-carotene functions as an antioxidant that neutralizes unstable molecules called free radicals. Oxidative stress is a known contributor to the development of certain chronic diseases. Antioxidants like beta-carotene help reduce or prevent oxidative stress in the body.
• Benefits to your eyes. Diets rich in carotenoids like beta-carotene may help promote eye health and protect against diseases that affect the eyes including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a disease that causes vision loss.
• Respiratory protection. Vitamin A, which the body creates from beta-carotene, helps the lungs work properly. A study suggested that eating fruits and vegetables rich in carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, had a protective effect against lung cancer.
• Neurological function. According to some studies, beta-carotene may improve your cognitive function, due to its antioxidant effects. However, eating fruits and vegetables in general, including those rich in beta-carotene, can decrease the risk of cognitive decline and conditions like dementia.
• Lung cancer. This protection against cancer that carotene provides is due to metabolisms like singlet-oxygen quenchers, immunity enhancement, intracellular communications through gap junctions, and inhibition of cell division.
• Heart disease. A diet rich in β-carotene is preventive for heart-related problems. There is a lowered risk of CVD and related mortality cases due to the antioxidant effect of β-carotene which modifies peroxidation mechanism.
Who should increase beta-carotene levels?
1. Celiac disease – patients with Celiac disease are unable to absorb vitamin A normally. Thus, this group of patients will require beta-carotene supplements to boost the body's requirement of vitamin A.
2. Cystic fibrosis – Patients suffering from diseases like cystic fibrosis (CF) are prone to damage by oxidation, which can be prevented by β-carotene supplementation. β-carotene acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, enhances immunity, and increases intracellular signaling.
3. Pancreatic disease – it has been shown that patients with pancreatitis are deficient in micronutrients and antioxidants such as beta-carotene, vitamin E and C. Supplements of these antioxidants can help combat pain in these patients.
4. Liver disease – Dietary beta-carotene supplementation has been found to have a protective effect on liver damage, and alleviate hepatic steatosis and fibrosis.
Which foods contain high levels of beta carotene?
Beta carotene is a fat-soluble compound, so pairing these foods, and spices with a healthy fat, such as coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil can help the body absorb them better.
Foods high in beta carotene include:
• dark leafy greens, such as collard greens, kale, and spinach
• sweet potatoes
• carrots
• broccoli
• grape fruit
• romaine lettuce
• plantains
• blackberries
• blueberries
Beta carotene is also found the following:
• paprika
• cayenne
• cinnamon
• chili
• cumin
• parsley
• cilantro
• green sage
• ginger
• basil
• oregano
• thyme
Side effects from beta-carotene include:
• Skin discoloration (yellowing that eventually goes away)
• Loose stools
• Bruising
• Joint pain
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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