The red-orange pigment which is found in fruits and plants is known as beta-carotene. This pigment is especially found in carrots and colorful vegetables. This is a yellow/orange pigment that gives vegetables and fruits their rich colors.
This pigment is converted into Vitamin A, which is an essential vitamin. If Vitamin A is consumed at high levels, then it is toxic. Beta carotene is an antioxidant and carotenoid. Squash, spinach, peas, carrots, and onions are foods that are rich in Vitamin A.
Some studies said that smokers who consume beta-carotene in high amounts have an increased risk of lung cancer. There are some studies in which it is said that beta carotene might slow cognitive decline. Beta carotene supplements interact with certain drugs, such as mineral oil and statins. This pigment can help older people to retain their lung strength as they get older.
8 Health benefits of beta carotene
Beta carotene helps spur hair growth
It is known that hair thinning, particularly among females, is caused due to poor nutrition. If you suffer from hair loss, then it is recommended to consume the daily recommended dosage of beta carotene because it can help to stop hair loss and encourages hair re-growth.
Prevents dandruff and other hair problems
If you have Vitamin A deficiency, then it can cause dull, dry, and lifeless hair and a dry scalp which can flake off into dandruff. This is a reason why you should consume foods that are rich in beta carotene because they have the ability to prevent these conditions.
Beta carotene treats skin conditions
Beta carotene is very effective in treating skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and dry skin. Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant that can help grow and repair body tissues and protect your skin against skin damage.
When you apply beta carotene externally, it can help treat open ulcers, carbuncles, boils, impetigo, and ulcers, and it can remove age spots. Also, it can speed up wounds, cuts, and skin lesions healing.
Beta carotene Treat scleroderma
This connective tissue disorder is characterized by hardened skin. It can happen due to low levels of beta-carotene in the blood. People who suffer from scleroderma can use beta-carotene supplements because they can help them a lot. But you need to talk with your doctor before you start using these supplements if you suffer from scleroderma.
Treatment of oral leukoplakia
This condition is characterized by white lesions in the tongue or mouth caused by years of drinking alcohol or smoking. When you consume beta carotene, then it can reduce the symptoms, and it will reduce your risk of developing this condition. It is recommended to talk with your doctor before you start using beta-carotene supplements as a treatment for leukoplakia.
Beta carotene reduces sun sensitivity
When you consume high doses of beta-carotene, then it can make your skin less sensitive to the sun. Also, beta carotene is very beneficial for people who suffer from erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare genetic condition that causes painful sun sensitivity and liver problems.
Also, the beta-carotene can boost the effectiveness of sunscreen. You should consume about 90 – 180 mg of beta carotene because it can reduce sunburn and provide an SPF of 4. This is why you can consume foods rich in beta carotene or supplements and apply sunscreen because it will reduce its effectiveness.
Strengthens immune system
Beta carotene can strengthen your immune system by activating the thymus gland, which is one of the most important sources of immune protection. This gland enables your immune system to fight off viruses and infections, and it can destroy the cancerous cells before they can spread.
Prevents rheumatoid arthritis
If you have a deficiency of beta carotene and Vitamin C, you have an increased risk of getting rheumatoid arthritis. You should consume adequate levels of beta-carotene because it will prevent the occurrence of this condition.
