What is beta-carotene?

Beta-carotene belongs to a group of about 500 carotenoids found in nature and 50 that exhibit vitamin A (retinol) activity. In other words, they are precursors of vitamin A, which means that the body can convert them to retinol. Beta-carotene is the most important carotenoid with the highest biological activity among the compounds of this group. It exhibits 1/6 of the biological activity of vitamin A. After ingestion and absorption in the small intestine, part of beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A and the remaining part is transported to the liver. Beta-carotene, like other carotenoids, is stored in the body in the liver, adrenal glands and fat tissue. The normal fasting blood concentration of beta-carotene is 0.9-5.58 µmol/L (50-300 mg/dL).

Beta-carotene is produced by plants and some bacteria - yeasts and moulds. It is found in the green parts of plants, flowers, fruits, seeds, roots and tubers. This carotenoid is characterised by its yellow colour, so it is commonly believed to be found mainly in yellow and orange vegetables and fruits.. Even the name beta-carotene comes from the Latin name for carrot ("carota"), since carrots are the source from which beta-carotene was first isolated in 1831. However, very large amounts of beta-carotene are also found in green plants.

Properties and effects of beta-carotene:

Most of the actions of beta-carotene in the body are similar to those of vitamin A. It is distinguished especially by its high antioxidant potential. What functions does beta-carotene have in the human body?

• It positively influences the functioning of the immune system,
• ensures the proper functioning of vision,
• prevents age-related macular degeneration,
• protects the lining of the digestive and respiratory tract against infections,
• prevents emphysema and bronchitis,
• thanks to its antioxidant properties, it plays an important role in the prevention of atherosclerosis by reducing cholesterol levels and reversing atherosclerotic lesions,
• determines proper epithelial keratinization,
• slows down the organism's ageing processes,
• has a protective effect on the skin,
• is important in protection against cancer.