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, mangoes 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 supportsimmune systemand promotes theInfection defenseof the body. Of particular importance isVitamin Afor theDevelopment of cellsandtissue. It ensures a 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 organsand the digestive tract.
Vitamin A has an antioxidant effect
Beta carotene is not only a precursor ofVitamin A. It can alsoFree radicalsintercept and is therefore connected to thedefense systemsinvolved, theoxidative stressBeta carotene is supported by a variety of otherCarotenoids, like for example Lycopene 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 prevalent in developing world countries, where the deficiency is manifested by high infant mortality and widespread blindness. Vitamin A maynot overdosedbecome.Excessive amounts of vitamin Ain the body can lead toSide effectslead.However, 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 used to supportskin 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 suspect that you haveNight blindness?
Eat little fruit likePeaches, apricots, berries?
