Beta Carotene

Beta Carotene: Beta carotene is a natural plant compound and antioxidant that can be converted into vitamin A in the human body as it is needed. Beta carotene is available in supplements and found naturally orange or green vegetables and fruits. Excessive intake of beta carotene through supplements or diet can result in problems with toxicity or an increased risk for disease in some people, especially heavy smokers and drinkers.

Adequate Amounts Claimed As Beneficial For Conditions: Beta Carotene

Adequate amounts of Beta Carotene are claimed to be potentially beneficial for:

Adequate Amounts Claimed As Preventative For Conditions: Beta Carotene

Adequate amounts of Beta Carotene are claimed to be potentially preventative for:

Toxicity/Overdose Risks For Supplement Or Excessive Intake: Beta Carotene

Excessive intake of Beta Carotene may involve the following risks:

Yellowing of the skin
Menstrual abnormalities
Increased risk of cancer in heavy smokers
Increased risk of cancer in heavy drinkers

Increased Risk Of Disease Associated With Supplement:Beta Carotene

Diseases this supplement may increase risk of:

Increased risk of lung cancer-related death in smokers
Increased risk of cardiovascular disease related death in smokers
Increased risk of lung cancer-related death in drinkers
Increased risk of cardiovascular disease related death in drinkers

Descriptions of Beta Carotene

Beta Carotene: A vitamin A precursor. Beta carotene belongs to the family of fat-soluble vitamins called carotenoids.
Source: National Institute of Health

Beta Carotene: A naturally-occurring retinol (vitamin A) precursor obtained from certain fruits and vegetables with potential antineoplastic and chemopreventive activities. As an anti-oxidant, beta carotene inhibits free-radical damage to DNA. This agent also induces cell differentiation and apoptosis of some tumor cell types, particularly in early stages of tumorigenesis, and enhances immune system activity by stimulating the release of natural killer cells, lymphocytes, and monocytes.(NCI04)
Source: Diseases Database