Description
"Beta-Carotene" is a provitamin A carotenoid naturally found in orange and dark green vegetables, including carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach. It functions as a pigment in plants while serving as a dietary precursor to vitamin A. This carotenoid contributes to biological pathways involved in vision maintenance, immune regulation, and cellular integrity. It also modulates oxidative processes that influence molecular stability and metabolic balance. As a dietary compound, beta-carotene remains a fundamental nutrient within plant-based nutrition and whole-food diets.
Functions in the Body
Category
Deficiency Symptoms
A deficiency in beta-carotene, as it converts to vitamin A, may lead to symptoms such as infections, delayed growth and bone development in children or adolescents, infertility, miscarriages, night blindness, corneal thinning or ulceration, dry eyes, foamy eye patches, dry skin, dry hair, and itching.
Synergists & Antagonists
Beta-carotene is commonly taken with vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, and zeaxanthin to support vision and immune health. However, excessive amounts may interfere with zinc and iron absorption.
Beta-Carotene
Warnings
Beta-carotene may interact with high levels of calcium, magnesium, or iron, potentially reducing its absorption. It’s recommended to balance these minerals when taking beta-carotene supplements.
Food Sources
Rich food sources of beta-carotene include sweet potatoes, carrots, dark leafy greens, butternut squash, cantaloupe, romaine lettuce, red bell peppers, broccoli, apricots, and podded peas.
Time Frame
Beta-carotene is best absorbed when taken with meals that contain fat, as it is a fat-soluble compound.
Depleted By
Beta-carotene levels can be depleted by factors such as antacids, nicotine, laxatives, hyperuricemia medications, statins, and antibiotics.