Beta Carotene is a natural pigment, belonging to a group called carotenoids. It is also known as a provitamin A carotenoid, which means that it is converted to vitamin A in our body.
Beta carotene is also rich in antioxidants which have many benefits in preventing oxidative stress in our bodies.
Many fruits and vegetables naturally contain beta carotene including:
- Dark leafy greens
- Sweet potatoes
- Carrots
- Butternut squash
- Apricots
- Red and yellow peppers
While these foods do contain beta carotene, the level and bioavailability of beta carotene in each food is highly variable.
Supplementing with beta carotene can be beneficial to receive a standardised amount each time you take a tablet.
Benefits of Supplementation
Beta Carotene and Skin Health
The antioxidants in beta carotene may help to boost our skin health by preventing damage caused by the sun. A review in 2012 suggests that beta carotene may increase our skins defense against harmful UV rays from the sun while helping to maintain skin appearance and health.
Beta Carotene and Eye Health
Beta carotene may help improve eye health and can even prevent against certain eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). One study found that when patients had high levels of carotenoids such as beta carotene in their blood, it may help to reduce the risk of AMD by 35 percent.
Improved Cognitive Function
Some studies suggest that long term use of beta carotene may slow cognitive decline. This benefit may be purported due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of carotenoids. This helps to prevent ‘oxidative damage’, which is caused by poor diet, alcohol consumption, smoking and radiation exposure. The study however only found these results when beta carotene was taken long term.
Sona Beta Carotene contains 15mg of beta carotene which helps to repair the damage caused to the skin by extended sun exposure to sunshine which allows for longer sunbathing.