Beta-carotene

Beta-carotene (carotenoid) is one of the deep green, yellow, orange and red pigments that gives vegetables and fruits their rich colours. The name beta-carotene comes from the Greek beta and Latin carota (carrot).

Beta-carotene, also known as a pro-vitamin A, is an essential component as the human body converts it into vitamin A which is essential for the health of the eyes. It is also a powerful antioxidant that has been established in inhibiting the growth of many pre-cancerous tumours. It also helps to increase the number of infection-fighting cells, natural killer cells and helper T-cells which helps strengthen the immune system.

WARNING: A common carcinogen found in cigarettes called benzopyrene can cause vitamin A deficiency. Consuming foods rich in carotenoids helps the body to produce vitamin A. Supplements should be avoided though as they have been known to worsen lung disorders in smokers.

NOTE: Eat foods rich in the vitamin A precursor beta-carotene with fatty foods like avocado, nuts, oily fish, seeds and virgin cold-pressed coconut, olive, rapeseed, rice bran and other plant oils to enable absorption because carotenoids are fat-soluble, meaning they are absorbed into the body along with fats.

Highest sources of beta-carotene in micrograms per 100 grams

NOTE: One µg is one microgram.

Natural sources of beta-carotene in alphabetical order

Related subjects

• A-Z of natural foods and remedies
• A-Z of nutrients
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• Vitamin A