What are the benefits of beta-carotene?
Beta-carotene can benefit our health in several ways.
1. Visual health
Beta-carotene is crucial for maintaining good vision because it is converted into vitamin A, which is essential for the proper functioning of the retina.
2. Antioxidant protection
Beta-carotene acts as an antioxidant, helping to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, especially those related to the heart, says the expert.
3. Immune System Support
Beta-carotene contributes to a strong immune system, necessary to strengthen our body’s defense against infections and disease.
4. Cognitive function
For 2023 research published in the journal Brain Sciences, scientists studied the role of beta-carotene in cognitive function, alone or in combination with different dietary components. A combination of beta-carotene with nutrients with higher antioxidant properties, such as vitamins C and E and zinc, has been found to impact cognitive functions including learning, language, memory, etc.
5. Skin health
Although sunscreen is essential in your skincare routine, beta-carotene can also protect against UV damage, reducing the risk of sunburn. It can also give your skin a healthy glow, which is something we all want.
What is the recommended daily intake of beta-carotene?
The recommended daily intake of beta-carotene varies, but a typical recommendation is between 3,000 and 6,000 micrograms for adults. Excessive consumption of beta-carotene, usually through supplements, can lead to a condition called carotenemia, causing the skin to turn yellowish-orange. However, this is not considered harmful.
What about beta-carotene supplements? Beta-carotene supplements are generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses. However, smokers should avoid high-dose supplements because they can increase the risk of lung cancer, the expert says. Some medications or ingredients in products you use for medical purposes may be affected if you take beta-carotene supplements.
1. Mineral oil
It is primarily used to treat constipation, but it may also reduce beta-carotene levels.
2. Statins
If you take beta-carotene with vitamins E and C and selenium, the effectiveness of simvastatin and niacin may be reduced.
3. Medications to control cholesterol
Colestipol is one of the cholesterol-lowering drugs that can reduce dietary beta-carotene levels to a large extent.
So you just need to be careful while taking the supplements to be safer. If you don’t want to go the supplement route, opt for foods rich in beta-carotene. The list includes vegetables and fruits like carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, spinach, kale, mangoes, apricots and broccoli.
