What is Beta-carotene? 

Beta-carotene is a dietetic source of vitamin A. which found in Fruits, Vegetables, and Whole grains. It also can be prepared in a laboratory.

The human body converts beta–carotene into vitamin A (retinol) – beta–carotene is a component of vitamin A. Human body needs vitamin A for healthy skin, mucus membranes, immune system, for Eye health and good vision. 

It is proved fact that people who intakes fruits and vegetables rich diets may have a reduced risk of heart disease and certain Cancers. Fruits and vegetables are rich source of beta-carotene and other nutrients which are beneficial for our body and Health. 

Vitamins alone not work as a good diet and not provide energy. Our body needs another components from the food, like protein, minerals, carbohydrates, and fat. Vitamins themselves often cannot work better without help of other foods. For example, some fat is required to beta-carotene to be absorbed by the body. 

Beta Carotene Rich Foods

How does it work?

Beta-carotene is converted in to vitamin A, an essential nutrient. It has Antioxidant activity, which helps to protect cells from damage.

Beta–carotene Health Benefits  

Beta carotene is converted in our body to Vitamin A called retinol in the small intestine. From there on, it proceeds and takes up all the spheres of Vitamin A. 

It improves vision and prevents eyesight problems like night blindness, hypermetropy, nearsightedness, hypersensitivity to sunlight etc. 

Beta carotene increases infection-fighting cells production and T cells. The functioning of these cells is to attack and destroy the offensive germs. It prevents cold related ailments and wards off infections on the respiratory, digestive, and urinary track system. 

Beta–carotene also delays Eye disease and eye floaters. 

Beta–carotene controls cholesterol and thereby prevent arteriosclerosis [thickening and hardening of the arteries walls, occurring typically in old age]and coronary heart disease.

Those consumes beta carotene regularly are at reduced risk of developing Breast cancer, Colon cancer and Lung cancer. 

Delays aging signs and improves the appearance of the skin, hair and nails. 

Food Being high in fibre [Fiber] content, Beta carotene rich vegetables will raise colon health and will solve constipation problem. Intake of raw carrots in empty stomach is advised for those having intestinal worms. 

Beta carotene rich foods include Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Kale, Spinach, Turnip Greens, Winter squash, Collard greens, Lettuce, Cilantro and Fresh thyme. 

Beta carotene compounds bestow the colors red, yellow, and orange to fruits and vegetables.  

Natural sources of beta carotene

Almost all the Yellow-Green-Orange (YGO) Vegetables and Fruits are rich in Beta carotene. Following are the common Vegetables/Fruits/Herbs/Nuts per 100 gm of weight with highest content of ß-carotene

 [Source: USDA Natural Nutrient Database]