Beta-carotene Supplement Benefits and Availability

Beta-carotene is a red-orange pigment found in plants and fruits, especially carrots and colorful vegetables. It is a precursor of vitamin A, which is essential for healthy skin, immune system, and good eye health and vision.
Category
Supplement
Where to get
Available as capsules, tablets, and as a natural component in fruits and vegetables
Vitamin A
precursor
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Beta-carotene FAQ


Image credit: walmart.com

What is beta carotene?

Beta carotene is a compound that is converted by the body into vitamin A. Vitamin A has a number of important functions in the body. Beta carotene is an antioxidant . There are many types of antioxidants, including both artificial and natural. Natural antioxidants can be found in plants.

Is beta-carotene a vitamin?

Beta- carotene belongs to a group of colored pigments called carotenoids. It's converted to vitamin A in the body and found in many fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene and other red, orange, and yellow pigments called carotenoids are considered antioxidants. They provide about 50% of the vitamin A needed in the diet.

What is beta-carotene used for?

Beta-carotene is a pigment found in plants that gives them their color. The name beta-carotene is derived from the Latin name for carrot. It gives yellow and orange fruits and vegetables their rich hues. Beta-carotene is also used to color foods such as margarine. In the body, beta-carotene converts into vitamin A (retinol).

What is beta carotene & how does it work?

Here’s our process. Beta carotene is a red-orange pigment found in plants and fruits, especially carrots and colorful vegetables. The body converts beta carotene into vitamin A, which is an essential vitamin. The name beta carotene comes from the Greek “beta” and Latin “carota” (carrot).

Why is beta carotene called a vitamin?

The body converts beta carotene into vitamin A, which is an essential vitamin. The name beta carotene comes from the Greek “beta” and Latin “carota” (carrot). It is the yellow/orange pigment that gives vegetables and fruits their rich colors. H. Wachenroder crystallized beta carotene from carrot roots in 1831, and came up with the name “carotene”.

Where did beta carotene come from?

H. Wachenroder crystallized beta carotene from carrot roots in 1831, and came up with the name “carotene”. In this article, we explain all about beta carotene, what it does in the body, and what foods it is found in. We will also cover any associated risks.

Beta-carotene References

If you want to know more about Beta-carotene, consider exploring links below:

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