Beta-carotene: Danger or benefit? What you need to know

Beta-carotene plays an important role in our body ; it is a precursor of vitamin A , a vitamin essential for the proper functioning of our body . It contributes to ocular well-being by maintaining normal vision. So Mom was right when she said: " Eat all your carrots, they're good for your eyes! " 🥕👀

It also contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system and is involved in the process of cellular specialization, tissue renewal (such as skin and intestinal mucosa).

👉 Also read: everything you need to know about vitamin A. 

Once absorbed, beta-carotene is stored in our fat tissue. When our body needs vitamin A, it draws on its stored reserves of beta-carotene , converting it to vitamin A in the liver.

To give you an idea, in humans, 6 mg of beta-carotene has the same activity as 1 mg of retinol (vitamin A).

Beta-carotene has antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage . It helps neutralize free radicals, those unstable molecules that can damage our cells and contribute to aging and various disorders. Great, right? But in certain situations, beta -carotene can become dangerous, how to identify them?

No, except for smokers or people exposed to carcinogenic substances such as asbestos. Excess beta-carotene in the form of food supplements is strongly discouraged for them. 🚬 ⛔

Indeed, some studies suggest that excessive consumption of beta-carotene in the form of supplements may pose risks for smokers, including increasing the risk of lung cancer.

The explanation is simple: instead of playing its role as an antioxidant, beta-carotene becomes pro-oxidant in the presence of cigarette smoke or asbestos fibers. This means that instead of neutralizing free radicals, it would contribute to the formation of new reactive oxygen species and the activation of carcinogenic molecules present in tobacco, thus increasing damage to cells and DNA.

If you don't smoke, excessive consumption of beta-carotene is not risky. In fact, the proportion of this carotenoid converted to retinol depends on the level of vitamin A reserves in the body, and this conversion is very slow. In other words, our body uses beta-carotene to produce vitamin A only when it needs it, thus regulating its conversion.

At worst, you could develop a slight carotenoderma, that is to say a yellowish or orange coloring of the skin. Nothing to worry about, this phenomenon is not very dangerous and reversible as soon as the excessive consumption of beta-carotene is stopped! ;)

You can easily get your fill of beta-carotene with a balanced diet. Here's an example of a beta-carotene-rich meal: start with a salad made with fresh spinach, grated carrots, and red and yellow peppers (dressed with a drizzle of olive oil for better beta-carotene absorption 😉). Then, enjoy a delicious sweet potato and lentil curry, and finish off with a tropical fruit salad. A delight for the taste buds and a good dose of beta-carotene guaranteed!

Don't forget that these beta-carotene-rich vegetables also provide you with a variety of other carotenoids as well as a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants, a veritable cocktail of essential nutrients for your overall well-being.

But, for those whose diet doesn't adequately cover their beta-carotene needs, a dietary supplement may be an option to consider. Just make sure to choose a quality product to get the full benefits while avoiding the potential dangers associated with beta-carotene supplements. So, here we go, let's get to the smart tips. 💪

Ask yourself the right questions: How is this beta-carotene extracted?

For your information, several methods exist:

1. Drying plant material: It is important to note that algae can accumulate heavy metals, which requires special vigilance.

2. Depectinized juice or in the form of oily macerate: check the concentration of active beta-carotene, as it may be very low.

3. Innovative processes or supercritical CO2 extraction, methods that preserve the quality of beta-carotene.

You’re probably wondering what beta-carotene is in our Sun Formula ? No secrets: it’s a standardized oleoresin, enriched with beta-carotene, extracted from the Blakeslea trispora mushroom. This patented extract, known as Lycored®, uses a unique solvent process that preserves the naturalness of beta-carotene.

With this innovative method, we ensure that the nutrient is as faithful as possible to its natural state, thus maximizing its benefits on the body. To discover all the other active ingredients contained in this supplement in addition to beta-carotene, it's here.👇

Proper dosage can prevent the dangers of beta-carotene. Make sure that the beta-carotene content is not too high. The upper limit for beta-carotene in dietary supplements has been set at 7 mg/day. Follow the dosage instructions to avoid the risks associated with overconsumption, especially if you are taking several supplements containing beta-carotene.

Beta-carotene is a valuable ally for the body. After reading this article, you can now safely integrate it into your daily life in order to benefit from its many advantages, whether by favoring a diet rich in colorful vegetables and fruits or by choosing quality food supplements.

But you may still have questions. Don’t worry, we’re here to answer them. 🤗