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Encyclopedia > Betacarotene

Carotene is a terpene, an orange photosynthetic pigment, important for photosynthesis.


It is responsible for the orange colour of the carrot, and can cause people who have consumed enough to turn slightly yellow. It does not actively contribute in photosynthesis, but instead it transmits the energy it absorbs to chlorophyll.


Carotene is the dimer of vitamin A and comes in two forms α and β-carotene. Both types can be stored in the liver, and unlike vitamin A, excess carotene is non-toxic and can also be converted to vitamin A as needed.

Image:alpha-carotene.png
α-carotene
Image:beta-carotene.png
β-carotene

External link(s)

http://www.chm.bris.ac.uk/motm/carotene/beta-carotene_home.html






  Results from FactBites:
 
Betacaroteno (1650 words)
Betacarotene is a natural food substance found in red, yellow and orange fruit and vegetables.
Cancers which have shown a marked reaction to Betacarotene include those that effect the epithilial tissues, the mucous membrane linings, from pollutive elements such as cigarette smoke, car exhaust fumes, industrial chemicals etc. This may be a good indicator to smokers to step up their intake of this valuable nutrient.
As a carotenoid, Betacarotene is able to be converted in the body into Vitamin A, an important Vitamin necessary for growth, healthy eyes, skin and mucous membranes, tooth and bone development, healthy tissues and reproduction ability.
Pediatrics: Betacarotene Overdose (628 words)
The pediatrician thought that her slight yellowish tint may be caused by overconsumption of vegetables and fruits with betacarotene.
Moreover, the articles I read indicate betacarotene is not dangerous and the body eliminates whatever it doesn't need.
Frankly, I am a little skeptical of this pediatrician's interpretation of the blood lab results and his interpretation of the risk to the health of our child even if there is a significantly high level of betacarotene in her body.
  More results at FactBites »

 

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