Beta-Carotene 25000IU (100)
Beta-Carotene 25000IU (100) Black is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
Beta-Carotene
25,000 IU 100 softgels Item Catalog Number: 00664
Vitamin A (retinol) is a yellow, fat-soluble, generic term for a large number of related compounds obtained from some carotenoids by conversion in the liver, its storage organ. Retinol (an alcohol) and retinal (an aldehyde) are often referred to as preformed vitamin A. While carotenoids are widely distributed in such foods as green and yellow vegetables, retinol is not found in any vegetable sources, but is concentrated in egg yolks and the livers of many animals. Vitamin A, either from animal sources or synthesized in our own liver, is essential for growth and reproduction, maintaining healthy vision, and supporting protein synthesis and cell differentiation.
Vitamin A and its analogs have shown the ability to help maintain proper DNA function.1-3 One study, however, has shown that for certain lifestyles (e.g., smokers) supplemental intake of too much beta-carotene in the absence of other carotenoids and antioxidants (such as at least 400 IU/day of vitamin E) may be harmful.4
Beta-carotene is the most potent precursor to vitamin A, but its conversion to vitamin A in the body is limited by a feedback system. It is an important antioxidant in its own right and one that can only build up to toxic levels in rare circumstances. Beta-carotene helps support immune health by enhancing the function of the thymus gland.5,6
References
1. Cell Mol Life Sci. 2004 Jun;61(12):1475-84.
2. Curr Cancer Drug Targets. 2004 May;4(3):285-98.
3. Nutr Cancer. 2002;42(1):117-24.
4. Biochim Biophys Acta. 2002 Feb 20;1574(1):85-92.1. JAMA. 2003 Jul 23;290(4):476-85.
5. Eksp Klin Farmakol. 1993 Jan-Feb;56(1):49-51.
6. Vopr Med Khim. 1992 Nov-Dec;38(6):31-3.
Supplement Facts
Serving Size 1 softgel
Servings Per Container 100
Amount Per Serving
Vitamin A (as beta-carotene)
25,000 IU
Other ingredients: soybean oil, gelatin, glycerin, beeswax, lecithin and purified water.
Dosage and Use
One softgel daily, preferably with a meal.
Caution
If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your health care professional before using this product.
Beta-carotene is a red-orange pigment found in plants and fruits, especially carrots and colorful vegetables.The name beta-carotene comes from the Greek "beta" and Latin "carota" (carrot). It is the yellow/orange pigment that gives vegetables and fruits their rich colors. H. Wachenroder crystallized beta-carotene from carrot roots in 1831, and came up with the name "carotene". Beta-carotene's chemical formula - C40H56 - was discovered in 1907. The human body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A (retinol) - beta-carotene is a precursor of vitamin A. We need vitamin A for healthy skin and mucus membranes, our immune system, and good eye health and vision.
Beta-carotene in itself is not an essential nutrient, but vitamin A is.
Fast facts on beta-carotene
Here are some key points about beta-carotene. More detail and supporting information is in the main article.
Beta-carotene is a red/orange pigment found in many fresh fruits and vegetables
Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A, an essential vitamin
Vitamin A is toxic at high levels
Beta-carotene is a carotenoid and an antioxidant
Foods rich in vitamin A include onions, carrots, peas, spinach and squash
One study showed that smokers with high beta-carotene intake might have an increased risk of lung cancer
Some evidence suggests that beta-carotene might slow cognitive decline
Beta-carotene supplements interact with certain drugs, including statins and mineral oil
Beta-carotene might help older people retain their lung strength as they age.
Beta-carotene from food is a safe source of vitamin A
Vitamin A can be sourced from the food we eat, through beta-carotene, for example, or in supplement form. The advantage of dietary beta-carotene is that the body only converts as much as it needs.
Excess vitamin A is toxic. Toxic vitamin A levels can occur if you consume too many supplements.
Beta-carotene is an antioxidantA Flamingo
The flamingo's characteristic red-orange color is caused by beta-carotene in their diet.
Beta-carotene, like all carotenoids, is an antioxidant. An antioxidant is a substance that inhibits the oxidation of other molecules; it protects the body from free radicals.
Free radicals damage cells through oxidation. Eventually, the damage caused by free radicals can cause several chronic illnesses.
Several studies have shown that antioxidants through diet help people's immune systems, protect against free radicals, and lower the risk of developing cancer and heart disease.
Some studies have suggested that those who consume at least four daily servings of beta-carotene rich fruits and/or vegetables have a lower risk of developing cancer or heart disease.
