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Description
Beta-carotene is a carotenoid, a plant pigment that is known to have antioxidant and other effects. This substance is rapidly converted to vitamin A by the body. Beta-carotene is often considered a form of vitamin A itself, but it is not. Having a normal vitamin A levels is the key to good vision, immune system strong and healthy in general.
Beta-carotene is popular for its antioxidant properties, so it can protect cells from damage. Numerous studies show that people who eat lots of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin beta-carotene and other minerals lower the risk of developing several types of cancer and heart disease. But so far, studies have not found whether in the form of beta-carotene supplements have the same health benefits.
Beta-carotene supplements may help people with certain health problems. Supplements can be used for someone who is deficient in vitamin A. There is some promising evidence that beta-carotene supplements may slow osteoarthritis. Taking beta-carotene along with zinc, vitamin C and vitamin E may help reduce damage to the retina due to age, the main causes of blindness in the elderly.
Beta-carotene supplements have been studied as a treatment for many other diseases. Example; cataracts, Alzheimer's disease, and cystic fibrosis. The result is quite convincing.
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There are no specific restrictions on the intake of beta-carotene. Research generally using doses ranging between 15 and 180 milligrams per day. High doses or long-term use can be harmful. Many experts recommend a combination of carotenoids or additional organic pigments (lutein, carotene, zeaxanthine, lycopene, etc.), not just beta-carotene alone. The right dose for the use of temporary or long term remains unclear.
The American Heart Association recommends that the intake of beta-carotene (and other antioxidants) obtained from foods rather than supplements. Food sources that contain beta-carotene, namely:
1. Carrots
2. Sweet potatoes
3. Winter pumpkin
4. Spinach and kale
5. Fruits such as cantaloupe and apricots
The content of beta-carotene is the most high in fruits and vegetables fresh. In the form of canned or frozen already generally implies less.
Side effects
When consumed in amounts found in foods, beta-carotene have very mild side effects. At high levels, it can change the skin to turn yellow or orange. But this is temporary and not harmful.
Beta-carotene supplements seem to have serious risks. People who smoked or were exposed to asbestos should not use beta-carotene supplements. A low dose increases the risk of cancer, heart disease, and can lead to death.
Excessive alcohol consumption in combination with beta-carotene supplements may increase the risk of heart disease and cancer. In high doses, vitamin A and beta-carotene may be toxic to the liver.
Source: WebMD
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