Benefits of Beta Carotene (Vitamin A)

Also known as pro vitamin A, studies show that beta carotene may help decrease risks of tumors and many forms of cancers. It's known to do this by stimulating our immune system to fight against free radicals known to cause breast, prostate, colon and liver cancers.

We can get our daily supply of vitamin A through a balanced diet leaning more towards fresh fruits and vegetables. The greener, leafier and brightly-colored the vegetable, the more beta carotene it provides. However, overdosing on beta carotene is also possible especially if one consumes large amounts of carrot juice for example.This condition, known as carotenosis, may show through discoloration of skin and eyes which tend to turn yellowish- orange. Luckily this disappears once you reduce the amount of intake.

Vitamin A is especially important in vision as the deficiency may  lead to blindness. In less severe cases, it can lead to poor vision at night. It also aids in keeping the skin healthy-looking and supple. lack of it can make the skin look rough and dry.

Though diet is the best source for vitamin A, most people resort to supplements. Like most vitamin supplements, intake of betcarotene supplements in high doses is not recommended since it has been known to cause certain types of cancers in people. Therefore, it is ideal to obtain all your vitamin A through a balanced diet rather than in pill form.