Beta-carotene is a kind of carotenoids that is of the orange, red, and yellow pigments. Beta-carotene is an organic compound it can be classified chemically as a type of hydrocarbon (terpenoid). Often used as in home remedies, herbal medicines, and alternative cures. Efficiency absorption rate of beta-carotene is approximately 15 percent. Beta-carotene is a common part of a healthy diet; it makes up around fifty percent of the vitamin A in the diet in the United States.
Beta-carotene can be found in a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Carotene is most commonly known for being a substance that is a part of what makes carrots look orange. It can commonly be found in a number of other foods, including: pumpkins, sweet potatoes, spinach, and collards. Synthetic production as a vitamin supplement is also not uncommon.
Health Benefits of Beta-carotene
Beta-carotene is purported to be useful in combating diseases like asthma (particularly those that are exacerbated by exercise). It has also been said to be effective as a preventative against certain forms of cancer, cataracts, heart disease, and old age (age related macular degeneration). It has been speculated that it may be useful in some way in treating diseases such as alcoholism, depression, AIDS, heartburn headache, infertility, Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, psoriasis, and skin disorders.
Other potential medical uses include treating epilepsy, infertility, rheumatoid arthritis, and vitiligo. It has been used to reduce the death rate and blindness during the night, diarrhea, and hay fever for famished pregnant women during late stages of pregnancy (typically in third world nations). Beta-carotene may also be somewhat useful in the reduction of sunburn risk.
It is likely to be effective against an inherited blood disorder called “erythropoietic protoporphyria.” Many medical research institutions suggest the natural consumption of beta-carotene from fruits and vegetables rather than using supplements.
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