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Beta-Carotene (Natural)

Description

Beta-carotene is one of nearly fifty carotenoids, and can be transformed by the body into vitamin A. Beta-carotene (a vitamin A precursor) converts to vitamin A in the liver as needed by the body. It is a powerful anti-infective and antioxidant in supporting immune health.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Antioxidant - Immune booster - Night blindness - Photosensitivity - Cervical dysplasia - Alcohol withdrawal support - Eye support (cataracts and macular degeneration) - Allergies

Clinical Applications/Research

Beta Carotene

The antioxidant effect of beta-carotene helps to combat free radical damage to the cells of the body, especially the intestinal mucosal cells and cells of the eye, which are highly susceptible to oxidative damage. Beta-carotene protects the body from the irritating effects of smoke and other environmental pollutants, promotes tissue healing, and may be helpful in preventing ulcers. Research shows excellent results in allergy control and anti-aging studies. Beta-carotene stimulates digestive rumen bacteria, improves digestion and, “increases the utilization of fatty acids” (vitamin E has an additive effect) (J Dairy Sci 1993;76(2):600-5). Supplements of beta-carotene, vitamin E and vitamin C are believed to decrease risk of gastric cancer (Nutr Rev 1994;52(3):75-83). Natural food sources of beta-carotene include green, leafy vegetables including spinach, kale and beet greens; deep orange vegetables including carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes and butternut squash; fruits including papayas, apricots, cantaloupe and nectarines.

Natural vs. Synthetic Beta-Carotene

Most nutrition companies do not provide you with 100% natural beta-carotene supplements. Label claims stating Natural Beta-Carotene only have to be 20% natural in order to make that claim (meaning that 80% of the supplement is synthetic). Check with your nutrition company and ask them to provide independent laboratory assays confirming that the beta-carotene in your supplement is 100% natural. Researchers orginally believed that there was no difference between natural versus synthetic. Recently, studies showed that synthetic beta-carotene caused an increase in lung cancer in smokers. When natural beta-carotene was used, no increase was noted. Natural beta-carotene has been shown to have antioxidant activity not found in the synthetic form. More and more nutritionally oriented doctors are recommending only the 100% natural beta-carotene supplements to their patients.

Contraindications/Toxicology

Beta-carotene is generally non-toxic. The only side effect reported in excessive dosages is a slight yellow-orange color in the skin. High dosages of beta-carotene should be avoided in diabetic and hypothyroid conditions (they cannot readily convert beta-carotene to vitamin A). Since beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, and is made into vitamin A as needed, supplementation of beta-carotene reduces the risk of vitamin A toxicity. Medicinal amounts of any vitamin, mineral or specialty nutrient should only be taken with the advice of a trained licensed healthcare professional.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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