WHAT IS BETA CAROTENE?
Beta-carotene is a natural pigment and antioxidant found in many fruits and vegetables that is well-known for its role in the human body as a precursor to vitamin A. It helps to give vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers their brilliant orange, red, and yellow hues. Beta-carotene, when consumed, can be turned into vitamin A, which is required for vision, immunological function, and skin health. Furthermore, beta-carotene functions as an antioxidant, assisting in the protection of cells from damage produced by dangerous chemicals known as free radicals. Its inclusion in a healthy diet has been linked to a variety of health benefits, including improved eye health, a stronger immune system, and a lower risk of chronic diseases.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BETA CAROTENE?
Here are some potential benefits of Beta carotene:
- Cognitive Function: Beta carotene, which is recognised for its antioxidant characteristics, has been studied for its possible cognitive advantages. Some research suggests that beta carotene may improve cognitive performance, especially when consumed for a sustained length of time. A Cochrane review published in 2018 assessed eight research on antioxidants, including beta carotene, and discovered minor cognitive benefits related with beta carotene supplementation and memory. These cognitive benefits, however, were mostly evident in studies that involved long-term supplementation for an average of 18 years. It’s worth noting that the short-term benefits of beta carotene on cognitive performance were insignificant.
- Skin Health: As an antioxidant, Beta carotene helps to maintain skin health. A diet high in antioxidant micronutrients, such as beta carotene, has been shown in studies to strengthen the skin’s natural defences against UV radiation and contribute to general skin health and beauty. It is crucial to note, however, that the level of sun protection supplied by dietary beta carotene is substantially lower than that provided by topical sunscreens. As a result, while beta carotene can benefit skin health, it should not be used in place of proper sun protection strategies such as sunscreen application.
- Eye Health: Among other carotenoids, beta carotene has been associated to maintaining eye health and lowering the risk of eye illnesses such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which can result in visual loss. According to research, persons with greater blood levels of carotenoids, such as beta carotene, may have a 35% lower risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration. Notably, diets high in beta carotene-rich fruits and vegetables appear to be highly helpful in protecting eye health, particularly among smokers. While the potential benefits of beta carotene for eye health are exciting, it is critical to seek personalised advice from a healthcare practitioner.
Regardless of these potential benefits, it is best to consult a healthcare expert before making any dietary or supplement changes to verify they are appropriate for specific health needs and situations.
HOW DOES BETA CAROTENE WORK IN HUMAN BODY?
When beta-carotene, a natural pigment present in a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables, is consumed, it performs an important role in the human body. When beta-carotene is consumed, it undergoes an intriguing change. It is broken by enzymes in the digestive tract, especially in the small intestine, into two molecules of retinol (vitamin A). This conversion process is critical because the human body requires vitamin A for a variety of key processes.
One of the principal functions of vitamin A obtained from beta-carotene is to support healthy vision. Opsin, a protein, mixes with retinol in the retina to generate rhodopsin, a light-sensitive molecule. Rhodopsin is required for both low-light and colour vision. Furthermore, vitamin A helps to maintain the integrity of the eye’s surface tissues, such as the cornea and conjunctiva, hence preventing disorders such as night blindness and xerophthalmia.
Beyond vision, vitamin A, derived from beta-carotene, is essential for the health of the skin, immune system, and mucous membranes, all of which contribute to overall well-being. The change of this nutrient from beta-carotene to vitamin A emphasises the need of eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables to ensure adequate intake of this nutrient.
HOW MUCH BETA CAROTENE CAN A PERSON TAKE?
The recommended daily consumption of beta-carotene varies depending on age, gender, and individual health concerns. When acquired from dietary sources such as fruits and vegetables, beta-carotene is generally regarded as harmless. However, when it comes to beta-carotene supplementation, it is critical to be cautious and follow suggested guidelines, since excessive absorption through supplements might potentially result in detrimental effects.
According to research, high-dose beta-carotene supplements may have negative effects, especially in populations at risk for certain health disorders. For example, research in smokers and asbestos-exposed people have revealed that high-dose beta-carotene supplements may raise the risk of lung cancer. Individual circumstances and potential health hazards must be considered in order to provide a particular dosage recommendation. Getting beta-carotene from a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is generally safe and useful for most healthy adults. However, if you’re thinking about taking beta-carotene supplements, you should talk to a doctor first. He or she can assess your individual health needs and propose an appropriate dosage that fits with your overall dietary consumption and health goals.
WHAT ARE THE VARIATIONS OF BETA CAROTENE?
Beta Carotene is also available as:
- Beta Carotene 1% Beadlet Synthetic
- Beta Carotene 10% Beadlet Algal (Dunaliella salina)
- Beta Carotene 10% Beadlet Synthetic
- Beta Carotene 10% CWS Water Soluble Powder Algal (Dunaliella salina)
- Beta Carotene 10% CWS Water Soluble Powder Fermented (Blakeslea trispora)
- Beta Carotene 10% CWS Water Soluble Powder Synthetic
- Beta Carotene 20% Beadlet Algal (Dunaliella salina)
- Beta Carotene 20% Beadlet Fermented (Blakeslea trispora)
- Beta Carotene 20% Beadlet Synthetic
- Beta Carotene 20% CWS Water Soluble Powder Fermented (Blakeslea trispora)
- Beta Carotene 20% Powder Fermented (Blakeslea trispora)
- Beta Carotene 30% Oil Suspension Natural Fermented (Blakeslea trispora)
- Beta Carotene 50000iu/g Food State on Yeast
- Beta Carotene 7.5% Beadlet Algal (Dunaliella salina)
- Beta Carotene 7.5% Beadlet Fermented (Blakeslea trispora)
- Beta Carotene 7.5% Beadlet Synthetic
Beta Carotene is commonly available in:
- Beta Carotene tablets
- Beta Carotene capsules
- Beta Carotene soft gels
Glentworth Formulations is here to suit your every need. Everything from Tablets, Capsules and Powder blends.
If you are wanting to know more information, please get in contact with us. Either using the contact form or contacting us directly on: enquiries@glentworthformulations.com.
