Beta Carotene Supplements FAQs
What are Beta Carotene supplements good for?
Beta Carotene supplements convert into vitamin A, which is good for eye health, supports a strong immune system and ensures healthy skin. You should consult a doctor before taking Beta Carotene supplements and take care of the amount you are consuming. Given that Beta Carotene converts to vitamin A, it’s possible you may consume too much if you are taking other supplements, like multivitamins.
What are carotenoids?
Carotenoids are compounds that are responsible for brightly-coloured pigments in fruit and vegetables. They are usually absorbed with fat by the body. Cooking foods that are high in carotenoids boosts their nutritional value. There are two types of carotenoid – carotenes and xanthophylls. Both have antioxidant properties, and the body also converts them into vitamin A, which is essential to keep the body healthy and working properly.
Which foods contain carotenoids?
You should ideally get all the carotenoids you need through your diet. Foods that are high in carotenoids include kale, spinach, watermelon, carrots, mangoes, oranges, peppers, tomatoes and yams. By consuming carotenoids, you can protect yourself from infection by boosting your immune system. Carotenoids are also converted into vitamin A, which is important for eye health, development and immune system function.
Can carotenoid supplements help eye health?
Yes – consuming foods that are rich in carotenoids can protect cells in the eyes and prevent macular degeneration, which is one of the main causes of blindness. Carotenoids can also protect the retina from degeneration. Carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin can help your retinas to absorb blue light. Research has indicated that consuming at least 6mg of the carotenoid lutein per day can lower the risk of macular degeneration by around 43%, and can also help prevent eye damage.
Can carotenoids help you beat cancer?
Carotenoids are high in antioxidants, which help our bodies protect themselves against damage to cells, viruses and bacteria. By increasing the number of carotenoids you consume, you are boosting the number of protective cells within your body. Carotenoids can help reduce the risk of developing cancers, and in particular, lung cancer. Some smokers who are trying to give up smoking take carotenoid supplements to decrease the damage to their body, although it is always advised that you give up smoking altogether to allow your lungs to heal successfully. Carotenoids have also been linked to lowering rates of skin cancer, because the body converts them into vitamin A which helps to maintain healthy skin, protecting it from sun damage.