Beta-carotene is actually a pigment which give yellow and orange colour to vegetables. Bright colours as if attracting us to consume there. Beta-carotene is converted to Vitamin A inside our body. There are many fascinating factors about this essential nutrient.
Origin of the word beta-carotene
The name comes from combination of two words, a Greek word “beta” and Latin word “carota” which stands for carrot. It was in 1831 that first time beta carotene was extracted from carrots in a powder form.
Safety feature of beta-carotene
Excessive consumption of Vitamin A from supplements is toxic for the body. However excessive consumption of beta-carotene is perfectly safe since the body will convert only that much quantity as required by the body into retinol, which is the active form of Vitamin A which can be absorbed by the body.
Criticality of Vitamin A
Vitamin A or retinol is crucial for healthy skin, body tissues, good vision, reproduction and robust immune system. Vitamin A is responsible for production of white blood cells and regulates cell growth and production all over the body. Deficiency of Vitamin A leads to number of problems including dry hair and skin.
Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin which means it needs fats to intake and store this vitamin in the body. With beta carotene directly produced inside the body you do not need fat to eat along with the food.
Mucus secretion for immune system
Various parts of the body have a mucus system which acts as a defensive mechanism. Mucus traps outside agents like dirt and bacteria and neutralise them. In order to have this mechanism running efficiently Vitamin A is the key factor.
Beta-carotene as an antioxidant
As part of the carotenoids family, beta carotene is also an antioxidant. It protects your body from free radicals which are reactive molecules which can harm the body by creating oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress is the main cause of inflammation which further leads to life threatening diseases.
Vital for fertility and reproduction
If Vitamin A is critical for cell growth it has a direct effect on fertility and pregnancy. Be it sperm production or egg development, vitamin A plays a vital role. Even during pregnancy, fetus health and tissue growth is also defined by how much vitamin A is available to both the mother and developing child.
Metabolic syndrome and vegetables rich in beta carotene
Almost all vegetables out there which are rich in beta carotene are safe for consumption. Carrots, pumpkin, spinach, papaya are some of the main sources. If you replace fast food and carbs with sufficient amount of vegetables, it provides your body with sufficient nutrition the healthy way.
Vegetables are rich in essential vitamins and nutrients. If eaten while having a meal, they provide sufficient fibre content for better gut health. They also make you feel full for a longer time because they do not digest fast. Finally it does not add any empty calories but adds nutritional value to your body.
While preparing vegetables avoid the temptation of overcooking them or preparing curries. Raw or sautéed veggies keep nutrients intact. There is no question of buying packed or processed vegetables as in India, the fresh variety is easily available.