Beta Carotene

Vitamin A is the general name given to a group of substances that include retinol, retinal and carotenoids.  Beta Carotene is classed as a pro-vitamin or precursor to Vitamin A, and is found mainly in vegetables and fruits rather than animal sources.  Beta Carotene is one of a family of 600 carotenoids and is found in high levels in carrots, pumpkins, spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, oranges, apricots and peaches.

The Benefits of Beta Carotene

Due to the fact the Beta Carotene is converted into Vitamin A, many of its functions are those of Vitamin A: -

• Promotes growth, strong bones, healthy teeth, skin, hair and gums.
• Counteracts night blindness, weak eyesight, and assists the treatment of many eye disorders.
• Builds resistance to respiratory infections, and shortens the duration of diseases.
• Helps the removal of age spots.
• Can help in the treatment of acne and psoriasis.

Properties

Conversion – Beta Carotene is safely converted within the body into Vitamin A.  As the quantity of Beta Carotene increases the proportion of Beta Carotene converted to Vitamin A decreases in order to prevent toxic build up of Vitamin A.  This is desirable since Beta Carotene is non-toxic even when taken in quantities sufficient to impart yellow colouration of the skin.

Antioxidant – perhaps the most important function of the Beta Carotene molecule is its action as an antioxidant by limiting cell damage caused by highly reactive unstable molecules called free radicals.

Requirements – Upper safe level for daily supplementation – 20mg Beta Carotene

Contra-indications/Precautions

Diabetics – Beta Carotene cannot be properly converted into Vitamin A by diabetics, or those with hypothyroidism, or severe liver malfunctioning.  These people therefore, should not rely on Beta Carotene as a sole source of Vitamin A.

Smokers – are advised not to take high level Beta Carotene supplements

Asbestos - People who have been exposed to asbestos are advised to avoid Beta Carotene supplements.

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