Surely more than once you have heard of the famous beta-carotene. But do you know what beta carotene is and what its properties are? Are you interested in taking more beta-carotene or is just not for you? Keep reading and let us clear all your doubts.
Beta-carotene is, without any doubt, one of the most famous and best-known antioxidants out there and is found mainly in orange fruits and vegetables, but the truth is that most vegetables contain some percentage of this pigment. As we have already mentioned, beta-carotene belongs to antioxidants, molecules that actively fight free radicals, the main responsible for the damage and aging of our cells.
Functions of beta-carotene: why include it in our diet?
Beta carotene’s fame is due to the fact that it accelerates tanning and adds a nice peach color tone to the skin, but its effects go far beyond visual effects. In addition to giving our skin the touch of encounter with the sun’s rays, it simultaneously acts as a sunscreen and protects the skin against burns.
Beta-carotene is the provitamin of vitamin A, precursor for the production of this vitamin so important to: maintain the health of our sight, fight inflammation, support the immune system and even prevent some types of cancer. It also helps us with the synthesis of collagen, which is why it is considered a vitamin of youth.
Since beta-carotene belongs to antioxidants, it is extremely valuable due to its anti-cancer activity. Eating plenty of food in this component is believed to reduce the risk of malignancies. However, in the case of smokers, regarding the incidence of lung cancer, the scientific evidence is not clear. For this reason, beta-carotene supplementation is not recommended for smokers.
The consumption of products rich in beta-carotene also has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system: it helps prevent atherosclerotic changes, cleanses blood vessels and helps to eliminate accumulated cholesterol deposits.
Another of its functions? Support the immune system. How? Beta-carotene acts on lymphocytes, the blood cells that participate in the immune response. Furthermore, it is assumed that a diet rich in beta-carotene can have the neuroprotective effect and help prevent dementia and other pathologies of brain function.
What are the best sources of beta carotene?
This antioxidant is found primarily in carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, goji berries, mangoes, peaches, apricots, nectarines, spinach, and red bell peppers. You can also within our products, specifically in the Oletti Beauty blend. Add a daily dose to your mid-afternoon smoothie, your morning oatmeal or any of your meals and enjoy a touch of extra shine on your skin, in addition to the protective effect on your health. Your body will thank you.