Out of all the antioxidant compounds recognized in healthcare industries, the flavonoid Beta-carotene stands out for several reasons. Aside from the fact that the compound can be isolated from everyday fruits and vegetables, Beta-carotene is also popular for its proven effects in presumably treating eye disorders. Recently, several cancer organizations from different countries across the world including American Cancer Society and the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer have declared Beta-carotene as a safe and effective health supplement component. Although the compound has not yet been approved by the US FDA as a potential compound for therapeutic medication formulations, experts are looking into the possibility of recognition in the near future.
What is Beta-carotene?
Beta-carotene belongs to the carotene terpenoids group abundant in plant sources. It is known to be responsible for pigmentation of several fruits and vegetables and is believed to be the inactive form of the essential body nutrient Vitamin A. Beta-carotene was first isolated in the year 1930. Aside from being a prime component of major health supplements, the compound has also been used in the food industry as a coloring agent. Experts say that overdose of the compound may result to unlikely side effects such as carotenosis and development of yellowish skin and tissue layers but when taken within controlled doses, Beta-carotene can provide a wide array of amazing health benefits.
What are the benefits of using Beta-carotene?
With the number of years having elapsed since its discovery, experts were able to discover several potential effects of taking Beta-carotene supplementation within doctor-recommended quantities. Some of these benefits include the following:
- It may help prevent cancer
One of the reasons why health supplement companies primarily consider Beta-carotene as an essential component in dietary supplement formulations is that it may help prevent cancer even in very low doses. Beta-carotene functions as scavenger for circulating free radicals in the body cells which causes changes in the growth and development of normal body cells. While the compound is said to prevent cancer, there is no proof as to whether it may qualify as an adjunct treatment option for chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
- It may prevent strokes and myocardial infarction
Although affecting different body organs, strokes and myocardial infarctions are commonly caused by the same pathologic patterns which are mostly associated with the circulatory system. Enhancing blood circulation by preventing thrombus and embolus formation is among the health benefits of using Beta-carotene supplements which can lead to prevention of strokes and myocardial infarction. The compound is also known to help eliminate fatty molecules in the blood vessels which may cause obstruction.
- It may control night blindness
In a study conducted on actual patients suffering from night blindness, experts discovered that Beta-carotene helps control the disorder and improve vision during the night. Researchers also say that the compound may treat blurring of vision and improve visual acuity.
Conclusion
Beta-carotene is an essential antioxidant with several promising health effects. Along with other antioxidant compounds, Beta-carotene is probably the answer to cancer.
