Carotenoids are natural compounds that provide fruits and vegetables their color, contain antiaging properties and help boost the immune system
Carotenoids are compounds that give fruits and vegetables their orange, yellow
or red pigmentation. Their healing powers help boost the immune system and reduce
the risk of cancer, and heart disease. They also promote anti-aging properties
within the body.
Over 600 carotenoids have been identified but only six found to be
significant for humans are extensively studied. These are:
A good source of alpha-carotene are carrots and
pumpkins. For lycopene, consider consuming red fruits such as watermelon and tomatoes. Lutein and
zaexanthin are found in red peppers, pumpkins, and dark green vegetables. Oranges, peaches and mangoes
are good sources for cryptoxanthin. Beta-carotene is the perhaps the best
known carotenoid and can be found in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables
including all those mentioned above as well as sweet potatoes and
cantaloupes.
Carotenoids are
antioxidants. They reduce free radicals within the body. Free radicals are harmful since they can cause mutations
within healthy cells. Many scientists believe that this is one of the primary causes
of aging. Antioxidants anti-aging properties are what make them important for protection
of the eyes. The carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin are specifically helpful in
reducing the degenerative disease, macular degeneration. Other carotenoids are
known to reduce the risk of cataracts.
Lycopene, beta-carotene and alpha-carotene have been specifically studied for
their heart healthy properties. They may also help promote heart health by
lowering cholesterol and reducing or even stopping
the formation of bad cholesterol. Carotenoids are also being studied as an anti-inflammatory
and may potentially be a good treatment for fibromyalgia and in reducing
arthritis pain.
Anyone not receiving at least five servings of
fruits and vegetables per day or women who are on contraceptives or hormone treatments
should take a carotenoid supplement. Be sure to take the supplement with food
to maximize absorption within the body. The only known side effect of over
supplementing is that your hands and feet may become orange. You will also want to
avoid taking too much of any one carotenoid since it masks the benefits of
other carotenoids.
Learn more about health supplements and the benefits they may have on your health.
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