What is beta carotene? Role, food source of beta carotene for the body

Beta carotene is one of the substances that are very necessary for the healthy development of the body, but it can be a bit confusing for many people. Refer to the article below to know what is beta carotene? Role and food sources of beta carotene.

What is beta carotene?

Beta carotene is a precursor of vitamin A, yellow, orange or slightly red. This substance is used in beauty, anti-oxidant, cancer prevention, good for vision, increased resistance . They are abundant in corn, carrots, sweet potatoes, mangoes, papayas, peas, lettuce, kale or colostrum.

The role of beta carotene in health

For adults

Beta carotene is an additional source of vitamin A for vegans.

– It helps to remove excess dead cells on the skin, thereby having beauty benefits.

Beta carotene is also an antioxidant, preventing the aging process and preventing cancer. Some studies have suggested that people who consume at least four servings of fruits and/or vegetables rich in beta carotene daily have a lower risk of cancer or heart disease.

For young children

– Beta carotene is very important for young children to get more bright and sharp eyes, prevent blindness.

In addition, it is also good for the child’s immune system.

For pregnant women

Beta carotene is very important in the development of the heart, liver, lungs, kidneys, eyes, bones and central nervous system of the fetus.

In addition, it also supports the recovery of women after cesarean section.

Foods that help supplement beta carotene

Beta carotene is found in yellow, orange and dark green leafy vegetables , such as pumpkins, carrots, sweet potatoes, mangoes, papayas, peas, cherries, lettuce, and cherries. kale, watercress…

Colostrum is also a safe and high source of beta carotene.

Formula milk also adds beta carotene to boost the body’s vitamins in addition to other essential nutrients.

Notes when supplementing with beta carotene

It is recommended to process foods by stir-frying to increase the efficiency of the body’s absorption and metabolism of beta carotene.

It is not recommended to supplement with beta carotene in excess of the prescribed amount of vitamin A. The prescribed dose of vitamin A is 900 μg for men and 700 μg for women, equivalent to about 10 mg of beta carotene in 1 day.

Overdosage of synthetic beta carotene ( more than 200 mg of beta carotene/day ) will cause yellow spots on the palms and backs of the hands, feet, and face. This symptom disappears when beta carotene is reduced.

Beta carotene helps to replenish and strengthen the body’s vitamin A, along with a host of other health and beauty benefits. But if you want to supplement this substance in synthetic form, you need to be careful and consult with your doctor!

Source: Medical News Today page

Maybe you are interested:

>> Vitamin A and their uses for human health

>> What are vitamins? Vitamins and their health benefits

>> What is Vitamin A (Retinol)? Role and source of vitamin A for the body