Beta Carotene: Natural source of Vitamin A

The term ‘Beta Carotene’ is derived from the Greek words ‘beta’ and ‘carota’ (carrot). In 1831, H. Wachenroder crystallised beta carotene from carrot roots and coined the term “carotene”.

Beta-carotene (-carotene) is a precursor of vitamin A, which is an important vitamin for cellular health and eyesight for people of all ages. Vitamin A is required for clear skin, healthy mucous membranes, a strong immune system and clear eyesight. According to several studies, people consuming four or more servings of ‘beta carotene-rich’ fruits and/or vegetables a day; have a lower risk of cancer and heart disease. (1)

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Benefits of Beta Carotene –

– Keeps lungs healthy as people age

– Improves cognitive function

– Provides protection against diseases that affect the eyes

– Lowers risk for certain kinds of cancer, including lung cancer

– Boosts overall health of the skin

– Helps protect against heart diseases and cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.

Foods rich in beta carotene

Red, orange, and yellow fruits and vegetables are high in beta carotene. Research shows that cooked carrots have more carotenoids than raw carrots. The bioavailability of carotenoids can also be increased by adding olive oil. As beta carotene is a fat-soluble molecule, it is better absorbed when consumed with fat. (2)

The foods a high beta carotene count include:

carrots
apricots
broccoli
butternut squash
broccoli
peas
romaine lettuce
cantaloupe
red and yellow peppers
sweet potatoes
dark leafy greens, such as kale and spinach

Beta carotene is also found in herbs and spices such as:

chili
parsley
cilantro
marjoram
sage
coriander
paprika
cayenne

Beta-carotene supplements – Dosage and Administration

Beta-carotene supplements are available in the form of capsules and gels. It should be consumed with meals containing a minimum of 3 grams of fat. (3)

Recommended Dosage and administration:

For children younger than 14, it is prudent to let a Doctor recommend the exact dosage. The doctor can measure blood levels of beta-carotene already present in the child and prescribe the adequate dosage accordingly.
For Adults, there is no recommended daily allowance of beta-carotene. Some doctors may prescribe between 10,000 IU per day up to 83,000 IU depending on the severity of the deficiency.
For adults, 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables every day is optimal to get about 3 to 6 mg of beta-carotene.

Side Effects

Long-term usage of large dosages of beta-carotene supplements can produce carotenodermia which is yellowing of the skin. According to the National Institutes of Health, large dosages of beta-carotene supplementation may also raise the risk of lung cancer in smokers. (4) Taking a multivitamin with a separate beta-carotene supplement in excessive doses might raise the risk of developing cancer. Other side effects include – loose stools, bruising and joint pain.

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