Beta-Carotene

Alternative Names: Pro-vitamin A.

Beta-carotene is a member of a class of compounds called carotenoids.  Carotenoids, in general, are responsible for the yellow/orange pigmentation of many fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins and apricots.  As a precursor to vitamin A, beta-carotene can be taken in high doses without the toxicity associated with vitamin A.

Source

While beta-carotene can be made synthetically, it can also be harvested naturally from carotene-rich plant material, such as the sea algae Dunaliella salina.  Isolated with beta-carotene are the carotenoids alpha-carotene, zeaxanthin, cryptocanthin, and lutein.  Beta-carotene is a common ingredient in multi-vitamin, immune enhancing, as well as antioxidant formulations.

Why it is Recommended

There have been many reports in recent years telling of the benefits of beta-carotene supplements.  As an antioxidant it has been studied for its ability to lower the risk for certain cancers, protect against cataracts, enhance the immune system, and reduce the risk of heart disease.  While these studies are not conclusive, many are very promising.  Of course, as a precursor to vitamin A, beta-carotene has all the benefits associated with vitamin A, without the risk of toxicity.

Instructions

0.6mcg of beta-carotene is equal to 1 IU of vitamin A activity.

Counter-Indicators and Warnings

Recent studies have associated an increased risk of lung cancer among smokers taking beta-carotene.  While these studies are somewhat inconclusive, caution should be taken by smokers when taking beta-carotene.