Beta-carotene is the pigment that gives carrots, sweet potatoes, and other yellow vegetables their characteristic coloring. This conjugated polyene also serves as a precursor that can be enzymatically converted into vitamin A in most animals and man. Although vitamin A is not present in any plants, the carotene precursor can be found in carrots, pumpkins, spinach, squash, watermelon, asparagus, broccoli, and cantaloupe. Liver is also a very good source for beta-carotene. Vitamin A (retinol) is an essential component for vision and it promotes bone growth, tooth development, and helps maintain healthy skin, hair, and mucous membranes. Deficiencies of vitamin A result in a number of maladys including night blindness, dry skin, poor bone growth, weak tooth enamel, and weight loss.
Recommended Dietary Allowances: Men = 5000 IU (or 3 mg beta carotene); Women = 4000 IU (or 2.4 mg beta carotene)
IMPORTANCE:- Necessary for growth & repair of body tissues
- helps maintain smooth, soft disease-free skin
- helps protect the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose , throat & lungs, thereby reducing susceptibility to infections
- protects against air pollutants
- counteracts night-blindness & weak eyesight
- aids in bone and teeth formation.
- Current medical research shows that foods rich in Beta Carotene will help reduce the risk of lung cancer & certain oral cancers.
- Unlike Vitamin A from fish liver oil, Beta Carotene is non-toxic.
- May result in night blindness
- increased susceptibility to infections
- rough, dry, scaly skin
- loss of smell & appetite; frequents fatigue
- lack of tearing
- defective teeth & gums' retarded growth
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