Betakaroteen

Betakaroteen is a naturally occurring organic compound that belongs to the carotenoid family. It is a vibrant orange pigment found in many fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and apricots. In plants, betakaroteen plays a role in photosynthesis and protects them from excessive light. When consumed by humans, betakaroteen is converted in the body into vitamin A, an essential nutrient vital for good vision, immune function, and skin health. It also acts as an antioxidant, helping to neutralize harmful free radicals that can damage cells. While betakaroteen is widely available in a varied diet, it can also be taken as a dietary supplement. Excessive intake of betakaroteen, particularly from supplements, can lead to a harmless condition called carotenemia, which causes the skin to turn slightly orange, especially on the palms and soles. This condition typically resolves when intake is reduced. The body efficiently regulates the conversion of betakaroteen to vitamin A, making vitamin A toxicity from betakaroteen sources unlikely.