Karótenóíðum

Karótenóíðum is the plural form in Icelandic for carotenoids. Carotenoids are a class of naturally occurring pigments that are found in plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria. They are responsible for many of the vibrant red, orange, and yellow colors seen in fruits, vegetables, and flowers. There are over 750 different types of carotenoids that have been identified.

Carotenoids play essential roles in photosynthesis, acting as accessory pigments that absorb light energy and transfer it to chlorophyll. In plants, they also protect chlorophyll from photodamage. For humans and other animals, carotenoids are important dietary components. Some carotenoids, like beta-carotene, can be converted into vitamin A in the body, which is crucial for vision, immune function, and cell growth. Other carotenoids, such as lycopene and lutein, function as antioxidants. Antioxidants help to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Common sources of dietary carotenoids include carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, tomatoes, and apricots. The absorption of carotenoids can be enhanced by consuming them with healthy fats. Different carotenoids have different absorption rates and biological activities, making a varied diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables beneficial for obtaining a wide spectrum of these compounds.