Beta Carotene: Your Ally To Keeping Your Health Up!

We all think about what we should eat. But usually, we go for the easiest approach. So, it is no wonder that more and more people prefer indulging in prepackaged foods. Still, these are not as healthy as they should be. And you might end up being deprived of essential nutrients.

One of these nutrients is beta carotene. It is an antioxidant responsible for converting vitamin A., and you can get it from several fruits and vegetables. Up next, we shared our insights on the carotene and why you should have as much as possible in your diet.

What is Beta Carotene?

Beta carotene is part of the red, orange, and yellow pigments named carotenoids. It offers up to 50% of the vitamin A required in any meal plan, and you can get it from various fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Thanks to its antioxidant activity, it protects cells from oxidative damage.

What are the health benefits of beta carotene?

It boosts cognitive function

Some small studies suggest that long term intake of beta carotene form healthy foods might prevent mental decline. Also, due to its antioxidant properties, it might help people with cognitive problems, such as memory loss.

It helps your immune system

This carotenoid is an antioxidant that inhibits the oxidation of molecules. As a result, it shields the body against free radicals damage. It can help you prevent several chronic problems, such as cancer and heart disease. Also, studies suggest that a diet rich in foods with beta carotene improves your immune response.

It supports skin health

Beta carotene diminishes sun sensitivity and promotes regenerative processes in the skin. Researchers discovered that it could prevent skin damage, and it supports its health. Still, if you aim to access these health benefits, you might need to consider a beta carotene supplement.

It supports eye health

Carotene is your ally in preventing age-related macular degeneration. High doses of beta carotene mixed with vitamin C and E can decrease your risk of macular degeneration by 25 percent.

Which foods are rich in beta carotene?

Mostly, you can get your daily recommended intake of beta carotene from legumes and fruits with a yellow, orange, or red color. Also, you should know that research concluded that cooked fruits and vegetables could offer more beta carotene than raw ones. Make sure you include in your meal plan the following:

- Apricots

- Asparagus

- Broccoli

- Carrots

- Chinese cabbage

- Chives

- Dandelion leaves

- Grapefruit

- Kale

- Ketchup

- Many kinds of margarine

- Onions

- Peas

- Peppers

- Plums

- Pumpkin

- Spinach

- Squash

- Sweet potatoes

Furthermore, you should know that beta carotene is present in spices and herbs, like:

- paprika

- cayenne

- chili

- parsley

- cilantro

- marjoram

- sage

- coriander

Are there any risks associated with beta carotene intake?

The first thing you should know is that there is no standard daily intake for beta carotene. But if you aim to add supplements with carotene in your diet, it is always best to discuss it with your doctor. You can receive sufficient amounts of beta carotene via food.

There are some health concerns linked with beta carotene supplements. Some studies imply it might increase the risk of lung cancer in those people that smoke. But in healthy people, supplementing with beta carotene might diminish the risk of cancer and heart disease. Make sure you discuss this with your medical practitioner so that you create the best meal plan for you.

Does beta carotene interact with medications?

If you consider taking beta carotene supplements, you should know that it might impede the following drugs from offering efficient results:

- statins – mixing beta carotene supplements with simvastatin and niacin may decrease their effectiveness

- cholesterol-lowering drugs – such medicine diminishes the dietary beta carotene absorbed in your body

- mineral oil – might lower blood levels of beta carotene

The bottom line

So, beta carotene in your diet ally for the healthiest results. Make sure you avoid alcohol consumption, as it can impede carotene absorption, and it might even cause liver problems. Besides this, all you have to do is follow a nutritious meal plan rich in yellow, orange, and red fruits and vegetables. You will be amazed by how rapidly your wellbeing will be improved. Antioxidants in your diet, support several functions and prevent serious health problems.