Beta-carotene: benefits for the body, sources where it is contained

Beta-carotene is a pigment found in fruits and vegetables that gives them their red, yellow, and orange hues. It is known as the provitamin A carotenoid. A provitamin is a substance that can be converted into an active vitamin. The human body is able to convert plant-derived beta-carotene into active vitamin A, which is essential for good vision, strong immunity and healthy skin, and a number of other bodily functions. We at Joy-pup will tell you about the benefits of beta-carotene and where it is found.

Benefits of beta carotene

Beta-carotene is an essential nutrient for the proper functioning of the body. When taken regularly in the right amount, it can provide health benefits in the following areas.

Protects skin from UV rays

Overexposure to UV radiation can damage skin cells, weaken the skin, and cause problems such as sunburn and dermatitis. They also stimulate the production of free radicals in the body, and when their number increases, this leads to an imbalance in the body and subsequent health problems. Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant and prevents oxidative damage to cells by free radicals. Thus, it protects the skin and reduces exposure to UV rays. However, the properties of beta-carotene only to a certain extent protects the skin from sunlight. For more effective protection, use a sunscreen with a high SPF.

Improves memory and stimulates brain activity

The inclusion of fruits and vegetables containing beta-carotene helps improve memory, support brain function, and reduce the risk of brain diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Positive effect on the cardiovascular system

Because carotenoids are antioxidant compounds, they reduce inflammation in the body. They reduce the risk of developing heart problems such as atherosclerosis, a disease in which cholesterol blocks the blood vessels. They also help reduce risk factors such as high blood pressure, abdominal obesity, and glucose intolerance. All this reduces the likelihood of serious diseases associated with the cardiovascular system. Beta-carotene, along with vitamin E, helps lower bad cholesterol levels.

Improves eye health

Macular degeneration is an eye condition that can cause blurred vision and lead to vision loss. This disease is common in older people and is caused by age-related visual impairment. Beta-carotene and other nutrients from the carotenoid family are known to nourish and protect the eyes. They reduce the oxidative stress that occurs on our eyes due to the blue light emitted by the sun and gadget screens.

Food sources high in beta-carotene

The term “vitamin A” does not refer to one thing, but to a whole group of fat-soluble compounds. In the foods we eat, there are two forms of it: vitamin A and provitamin A carotenoids. Animal products such as liver, fish, meat, and dairy are excellent sources of complete vitamin A. The provitamin form is found in orange and yellow vegetables, fruits, leafy green vegetables, and some vegetable oils, herbs, and spices.

Some food sources containing beta-carotene:

• carrot;
• spinach;
• tomatoes;
• pumpkins;
• Bell pepper;
• apricots;
• broccoli;
• cabbage;
• melon;
• mango;
• coriander;
• chilli;
• parsley,
• paprika;
• Cayenne pepper;
• sage.

Foods containing beta-carotene should be cooked or eaten with foods high in healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados, and nuts. Since beta-carotene is a form of vitamin A, it is highly soluble in fat, which helps the body absorb even more of it.

See also: the beneficial properties of cherries for body health and weight loss.