Beta Carotene: An Important Antioxidant
Beta carotene is also known as Provitamin A. It is recognized as an
important antioxidant and immune modulator. Beta carotene is found in
many colorful vegetables and fruits. It is also present in numerous vitamin
and mineral supplements, and has been used for cancer prevention,
heart disease, and immune stimulation. One recent study showed that
men who took 50 mg of beta carotene every other day for an average of 18
years had a slower age-related decline in cognitive (brain) function than
the men who did not take beta carotene.
Usual doses of beta carotene range from 3-15 mg daily or 5000-25,0000
IU daily. Typically, 3mg of beta carotene is equivalent to 5000 IU of vitamin
A. No major side effects have been reported with beta carotene use;
however, a yellowish coloration of the skin (caroteno-dermia) can occur
when high amounts of beta carotene are consumed. Alcohol may block
the conversion of beta carotene to vitamin A. Women who are pregnant
or breastfeeding should limit intake of beta carotene to 6 mg daily to
avoid the potential toxic effect of vitamin A on the fetus or infant.