Beta-Carotene

What is it?

Beta-carotene is a group of yellow-orange-red pigments called carotenoids that is found in whole grains, fruits and vegetables. It has anti-oxidant activity and is converted into Vitamin A. 6-8 mg of beta-carotene can be obtained by eating about 5 servings of fruits and vegetable daily.

Benefits

People with inherited blood disease “Erythropoietic Protoporphyria” will benefit from eating beta-carotene to prevent sun photo-sensitivity in their skin. There are studies that prove that beta-carotene reduces breast/ovary cancer risk, treats Age-related Macular degeneration (eye disease), and prevents sunburn in people who are sun-sensitive, prevent deterioration of osteoarthritis, prevent bronchitis/asthma, treats tongue condition leukoplakia and improves strength in elderly.

Many believed that beta-carotene helps in conditions like diabetes, prevent stroke, prevents cataracts, heart diseases and Alzheimer. However more scientific research is required to ascertain if these proclaimed benefits are true.

Possible side effects

Beta-carotene is generally safe to take for people with specific medical conditions. Do not take it for normal general use unless clinically indicated. Avoid in high doses, it turns skin color yellow-orange.

There is insufficient evidence to prove if it is safe for lactating/pregnant women to consume it, hence it is best to avoid. People who has asbestos exposure and those who smoke should avoid taking it, as it may increase the risk of lung cancer.

Like other anti-oxidant vitamins, it should not be taken after angioplasty (heart procedure to unblock a vessel) as it may hinder the healing process.

Drug-drug interactions

1. Cholesterol medications: Beta-carotene will decrease the effectiveness of cholesterol lowering medications.

2. Niacin: Niacin increases the good cholesterol. However when taken with beta-carotene, it will decrease the good cholesterol in our body.

Dosage

1. For Erythropoietic Protoporphyria: dosage is dependent on age.

  • Age 1 to 4: the daily dose is 60-90 mg
  • Age 5 to 8 years: the daily dose is 90-120 mg
  • Age 9 to 12 years: the daily dose is 120-150 mg
  • Age 13 to 16 years: the daily dose is 150-180 mg
  • Age 16 and older: the daily dose is 180 mg.
  • If it is ineffective, beta-carotene dosage can be increased by 30-60 mg daily for children under 16 years old, and up to a total of 300 mg per day for those older than age 16.

2. For preventing sunburn in sun-sensitive people: beta-carotene 25 mg orally daily.

3. For treating age-related macular degeneration (AMD): beta-carotene 15 mg plus vitamin C 500 mg, zinc oxide 80 mg, and vitamin E 400 IU daily.

Please follow the instructions given by your doctor and if in doubt if you require this supplement please consult your doctor first. There is currently no guidelines on daily dose of beta-carotene supplement for people without any clinical indications. 
Health Tips