Beta-carotene
Beta-carotene is a pigment found in plants that gives yellow and orange fruits and vegetables their rich hues. Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body.
Pronunciation
Beta-carotene is pronounced as bay-tuh kuh-ROT-een.
Etymology
The term "beta-carotene" comes from the Latin beta and Greek karoton. Beta is the second letter of the Greek alphabet, and it is also the name for a group of compounds similar to carotene. Karoton is the term for "carrot" in Greek, which is where beta-carotene was first identified.
Related Terms
- Carotenoid: A type of pigment found in many plants, algae, and bacteria. Beta-carotene is a type of carotenoid.
- Vitamin A: A vitamin that is important for growth and development, immune system function, and vision. Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body.
- Antioxidant: A substance that helps protect the body's cells from damage. Beta-carotene has antioxidant properties.
- Retinol: Another name for vitamin A. Beta-carotene is converted into retinol in the body.
Health Benefits
Beta-carotene has several health benefits. It is an antioxidant, which means it helps protect the body from damaging molecules called free radicals. Beta-carotene is also a provitamin of vitamin A, which means the body can convert it into vitamin A for use. Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin and mucus membranes, our immune system, and good eye health and vision.
Food Sources
Beta-carotene is found in many fruits and vegetables, including:
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Beta-carotene
- Wikipedia's article - Beta-carotene
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