Beta-Carotene









Beta-Carotene


Natural product category
Vitamin
What is this natural product used for?
Beta-carotene is an important antioxidant that provides protection from processes that can damage cells (oxidation). These processes may lead to damage from UV light. In addition, beta-carotene may help support immunity and reduce photosensitivities. This natural product is also a source of vitamin A.
How does it work?
Beta-carotene consists of two molecules of vitamin A that become available for use by the body once they are separated in the gastrointestinal system. Beta-carotene has antioxidant activity, which helps to rid the body of potentially dangerous substances (free radicals). It also serves an important role in the immune system.
How is it best taken?
  • Take this product with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach.
  • Take this product with a full glass of water.
  • Take this product at a similar time every day.
What do I do if I miss a dose?
  • To gain the most benefit, do not miss doses.
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
What are the precautions when taking this natural product?
  • Check medicines and natural products with healthcare provider. This natural product may not mix well with other medicines or natural products.
  • Avoid alcohol (includes wine, beer, and liquor).
  • Use with caution if you have kidney disease. Talk with healthcare provider.
  • Use with caution if you have liver disease. Talk with healthcare provider.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicines or natural products. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
What are the possible side effects of this natural product?
  • Changes color of urine or stool.
  • Belly pain and cramps.
  • Nausea or vomiting. Small frequent meals, frequent mouth care, sucking hard candy, or chewing gum may help.
  • Diarrhea. Yogurt, Bifidobacterium bifidum , or Lactobacillus acidophilus may help.
  • Menstrual changes. Premenopausal women may not have a normal period. Postmenopausal women may have bleeding and spotting.
  • Skin may turn orange in color.
What should I monitor?
  • Length or severity of menstrual changes.
  • Any significant changes in skin (pigmentation, color, rash).
  • Follow up with healthcare provider on a regular basis.
Reasons to call healthcare provider
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; tightness in the chest; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Severe nausea or vomiting.
  • Severe diarrhea.
  • Menstrual changes. This includes lots of bleeding, spotting, or bleeding between cycles.
How should I store this natural product?
  • Store in original container at room temperature.
  • Protect from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.
Dietary sources
Fruits (oranges, cantalopes, mangos), and vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, winter squash).
Dosage forms
Oral
Drug interactions
Medications that may decrease the amount of beta-carotene/vitamin A absorbed include cholestyramine, colchicine, colestipol, mineral oil, neomycin, orlistat.
General statements
  • Vitamins are essential nutrients, meaning the body cannot make them but has to obtain them from either food and/or supplements.
  • There are two types of vitamins: Fat-soluble and water-soluble. Because the fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the fatty tissues in the body, toxic levels can develop. The fat-soluble vitamins are A, D, E, and K. Be sure to follow the package labeling when taking any of these products.
  • Water-soluble vitamins are removed from the body when not needed. They must be replaced each day, either through nutrient intake (daily meals) or from a supplement. The water-soluble vitamins are the B and C vitamins.
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