Beta carotene is a fat-soluble pigment necessary for photosynthesis. Carotene gives the orange color of many yellow and orange vegetables and fruits such as carrots, spinach, lettuce, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, broccoli, melons, oranges and zucchini. There are types such as alpha, bet, gamma, delta and epsilon.

Beta carotene is a fat-soluble pigment necessary for photosynthesis. Carotene gives the orange color of many yellow and orange vegetables and fruits such as carrots, spinach, lettuce, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, broccoli, melons, oranges and zucchini. There are types such as alpha, bet, gamma, delta and epsilon.

90% of beta carotene is stored in the liver, the remaining part in the kidneys, lungs, eyes and adipose tissue. Converts to retinol (vitamin A) in the small intestine when needed. Since it is a retinol precursor, it does the same tasks as vitamin A. As an antioxidant, it prevents DNA damage and supports the immune system.



Excessive intake of beta carotene in smokers can have serious negative consequences.

 Where to get beta carotene?

  • Carrot,
  • Spinach,
  • Lettuce,
  • Sweetcorn,
  • Tomatoes,
  • Sweet potato,
  • Broccoli,
  • Melon,
  • Apricot,
  • Papaya,
  • Peach,

The brighter the color of the fruit or vegetable, the higher the beta carotene content.

What are the functions of beta carotene?

  • Supports eye health, prevents diseases,
  • Strengthens memory, increases cognitive functions,
  • Reduces signs of Alzheimer’s,
  • Protects the skin, keeps it healthy,
  • It reduces the risk of some cancers such as breast, lung, prostate,
  • It is used as an element of treatment in some diseases (macular degeneration, sun allergy, scleroderma, metabolic syndrome, etc.).

What is the need for beta carotene?

  • 0 – 1 year old child: 1000 IU
  • 1-3 years old child: 1000 IU
  • Children 4-8 years: 1335 IU
  • Child 9-13 years: 2000 IU
  • Boy 14 years and older: 3000 IU
  • Girl 14 years and older: 2310 IU
  • Pregnancy period: 2565 IU
  • Lactation period: 4300 IU

What happens in beta carotene deficiency?

Causes of beta carotene deficiency usually include:

  • Not enought feeding,
  • Protein energy malnutrition,
  • Alcohol addiction,
  • Hypothyroidism,
  • Zinc deficiency,
  • Diabetes mellitus.

Beta carotene deficiency sometimes does not cause symptoms. Possible signs, symptoms, and diseases include:

  • Malaise, fatigue,
  • Insomnia,
  • Weakening of taste and smell,
  • Anorexia,
  • Acne,
  • Menstrual irregularities,
  • Gum diseases,
  • Visual impairment in dim light
  • Susceptibility to infections,
  • Dry skin,
  • Drying of hair, rapid breakage,
  • Increased risk of cancer.

What happens with an excess of beta carotene?

Beta carotene is not toxic like vitamin A. If taken in large amounts, it may cause yellowing of the skin. In smokers and those exposed to asbestos, excessive intake may cause an increased risk of cancer.



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