Beta Carotene is probably the best known of the carotenoid family of antioxidants (which includes over 600 nutrients such as Lycopene and Lutein). Carotenoids, along with flavonoids, are the red, orange, and yellow pigments that give color to many fruits and vegetables. The body converts Beta Carotene as needed into vitamin A, a nutrient vital to the growth and development of the human body.

Beyond converting to Vitamin A, Beta Carotene is also a powerful antioxidant. In addition to the many well-known studies on Beta Carotene's effectiveness for heart disease and cancer, researchers have been exploring Beta Carotene’s potential for treating diseases such as chronic fatigue syndrome, Alzheimer's disease, Fibromyalgia, male infertility, and psoriasis.

One of the most interesting things that the researchers have found is that the development of cataracts (a clouding of the eye's lens that impairs vision) has been linked to low levels of Beta Carotene and other antioxidants. Another study, still in its early stages, points to a possible connection between having too little Beta Carotene (along with low levels of vitamins A and E) and development of lupus, an autoimmune disorder.

Though deficiency of Beta Carotene is rare, since it is available in supplements and many fruits and vegetables, symptoms of a Beta Carotene deficiency mimic those of a vitamin A deficiency and include dry skin, night blindness, and low resistance to infection. Beta Carotene is a very safe supplement, and is the preferred source of vitamin A. This is because the body stores any excess vitamin A, and over time this can result in the skin turning orange. The advantage to supplementing with Beta Carotene instead of vitamin A is that it is nearly impossible to overdose on Beta Carotene because the body does not store it.

Supplement Watch. “Beta Carotene.” http://www.supplementwatch.com/
–    Whole Health MD. “Beta Carotene.” http://www.wholehealthmd.com  

BIOMETICS' complete line of advanced liquid nutritional supplements provide vital nutrients in a highly absorbable form.  ALOE PLUS, BIO FUEL, BODY'S BEST, CAL/MAG 100, CELL CARE, and SHAPE RIGHT all contain Beta Carotene and other nutrients to support overall health.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.