Beta Carotenebelongs to the group ofCarotenoidsBeta carotene serves as a precursor (provitamin A) for vitamin A and can be used by the body as needed inVitamin AVitamin A is good for theEyesand thatgrowthBeta carotene and other carotenoids also protect Freeradical and protect theimmune system.
Which foods contain beta carotene?
Beta Caroteneis found in many animal foods such as liver, cod liver oil, fish, milk and cheese. Red, yellow or green fruits and vegetables, especially carrots, spinach, tomatoes, apricots, mangos and honeydew melons also containother carotenoidsto find.
Origin and function
Vitamin A, also known asRetinolknown, is found exclusively in animal products.Vitamin Ais important for goodeyesight, because it is involved in the process of light-dark adaptation in the retina. Vitamin A also supports theimmune systemand promotes theInfection defenseof the body. Special importance isVitamin Afor theDevelopment of cellsandtissueIt ensures healthy development of the fetus in the womb and promotes normalGrowth ofBone, hair, teeth, skinandGums. Vitamin A is also relevant for the mucous membranes of theRespiratory systemand the Digestive tract.
Vitamin A has an antioxidant effect
Beta carotene is not only a precursor ofVitamin A. It can alsoFree radicalsand is therefore connected to theDefense systemsinvolved, theoxidative stressBeta carotene is supported by a variety of otherCarotenoids, such aslLycopene andLutein.Night blindnessmay be an indication ofVitamin A deficiencyOther deficiency symptoms includeSkin diseases,attacked Hair and fingernailsand astrong susceptibility to infectionsSevere vitamin A deficiency is particularly common in third world countries. There, the deficiency is manifested by high child mortality and widespread blindness. Vitamin A must not benot overdosedbecome.Too high amounts of vitamin Ain the body can lead toSide effectslead.But this does not apply to beta carotene: Only as much beta carotene is converted into vitamin A as the body actually needs.
Use of Beta Carotene
Vitamin A deficiency: They can occur in Digestive and absorption disorders orcertain Intestinal diseases.
Eye diseases: Vitamin A can help with eye problems such asNight blindnesshave a positive effect.
Dermatological problems: Vitamin A is supportive inSkin diseases,such asacne, used.
Am I lacking vitamin A or beta carotene?
Already ata relevant pointcan supply yourVitamin Aand its provitamins may not be sufficient:
Never or rarely eatyellow, red and green vegetables?
EatVegetables almost exclusively raw?
Do you suspectNight blindness?
Eat little fruit likePeaches, apricots, berries?
