Nutrient Database

Beta-Carotene

antioxidant

Approved

General information about nutrients. No diagnosis, no medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or have a medical condition, talk to your doctor before taking supplements.

With fatty mealFasting safe

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Overview

Provitamin A carotenoid and antioxidant. Converted to vitamin A as needed. Found in orange and green vegetables.

Interactions

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Beta-carotene reduces Lutein

Beta-carotene and lutein compete for the same intestinal absorption pathway (SR-BI receptor). High-dose beta-carotene (>15mg) significantly reduces lutein and zeaxanthin absorption.

Top 5 food sources

Sweet potatoescarrotsspinachkalecantaloupe
Expert consensus: Moderate

Best from food sources. Isolated supplementation increased lung cancer risk in smokers (ATBC/CARET trials).

Beta-Carotene — Stackwell