Beta-carotene is an antioxidant. It protects the body from damaging molecules called free radicals. Free radicals damage cells through a process known as oxidation. Over time, this damage can lead to a number of chronic illnesses. There is good evidence that eating more antioxidants from foods helps boost your immune system, protect against free radicals, and may lower your risk of heart disease and cancer.
What is beta carotene?The human body converts beta carotene into vitamin A (retinol) - beta carotene is a precursor of vitamin A. We need vitamin A for healthy skin and mucus membranes, our immune system, and good eye health and vision.Beta carotene in itself is not an essential nutrient, but vitamin A is. Beta carotene's chemical formula - C40H56 - was discovered in 1907Vitamin A can be sourced from the food we eat, through beta carotene, for example, or in supplement form. The advantage of dietary beta carotene is that the body only converts as much as it needs.Excess vitamin A is toxic. Toxic vitamin A levels can occur if you consume too many supplements.A supplement can provide nutrients either extracted from food sources or synthetic, individually or in combination, in order to increase the quantity of their consumption. The class of nutrient compounds includes vitamins, minerals, fiber, fatty acids and amino acids.
Key Features
Found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, this provitamin A, is famous for giving carrots a rich orange color.
Readily converts to Vitamin A in the system when needed.
Helps maintain the health of eyes.
Beta carotene is an antioxidant
Beta carotene may slow down cognitive decline
Beta carotene keeps lungs healthy as people age
