Beta Carotene: The Orange Phytonutrient

by Gabriel Adams
Typically, when one thinks of chlorophyll it is the color green that comes to mind. However, the color yellow indicates the substance Beta Carotene. Beta Carotene is known as a photosynthetic pigment. This simply means that the orange-yellow color of Carotene captures light energy and converts it into photosynthesis.

Beta Carotene can be found in all vegetables that have an orange-yellow color. Some of the vegetables that contain the most Beta Carotene include:

Carrots Broccoli Spinach Collard Greens Sweet Potatoes Kale Turnip Greens Winter Squash Fresh Thyme

Today, researchers are very excited about the fact that Beta Carotene is an anti oxidant. Currently studies are underway to determine the effect that Beta Carotene has upon cancer cells. Beta Carotene helps prevent free radicals from causing damage in the body, the cancer causing agents. Beta Carotene is also beneficial for strengthening, repairing, and improving the Immune System.

It is important to recognize that Beta Carotene has a close relationship with Vitamin A. Since the body is incapable of storing vitamins and minerals for a long time, it is possible to ingest too much Beta Carotene. Since Beta Carotene is orange in color, the first obvious sign that too much Beta Carotene has been taken is that the skin will begin to take on an orange or yellow tint. This will leave easily, once the amount of Beta Carotene is reduced.

If you are taking Beta Carotene in pill form, it is important that your physician or health care provider is aware that you are taking these supplements. There has been a connection made between people who smoke and take synthetic forms of Beta Carotene and cancer. It should be noted that this association is not made with those who take Beta Carotene in its natural form, but only with the synthetic form. However, due to this risk, it is wise to let your health care worker know if you are taking Beta Carotene.