Background

Beta-carotene belongs to a group of colored pigments called carotenoids. It's converted to vitamin A in the body and found in many fruits and vegetables.

Beta-carotene and other red, orange, and yellow pigments called carotenoids are considered antioxidants. They provide about 50% of the vitamin A needed in the diet. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects help to protect cells from damage.

People use beta-carotene for an inherited disorder marked by sensitivity to light. It is also used to prevent certain cancers, heart disease, cataracts, aging skin, and many other purposes, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.

Many global health authorities recommend getting beta-carotene and other antioxidants from food instead of supplements.

Safety Safety definitions

When taken by mouth: Beta-carotene is likely safe when taken in appropriate amounts for certain medical conditions. But beta-carotene supplements are not recommended for general use.

Beta-carotene supplements are possibly unsafe when taken by mouth in high doses, especially when taken long-term. High doses of beta-carotene can turn skin yellow or orange. Taking high doses of beta-carotene supplements might also increase the chance of death from all causes, increase the risk of certain cancers, and possibly cause other serious side effects. Beta-carotene from food does not seem to have these effects.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Beta-carotene is likely safe when taken by mouth in appropriate amounts. But there isn't enough reliable information to know if high doses of beta-carotene are safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: Beta-carotene is likely safe when taken by mouth in appropriate amounts.

History of asbestos exposure: In people who have been exposed to asbestos, beta-carotene supplements might increase the risk of cancer. Don't take beta-carotene supplements if you have been exposed to asbestos.

Smoking: In people who smoke, beta-carotene supplements might increase the risk of colon, lung, and prostate cancer. Don't take beta-carotene supplements if you smoke.

Effectiveness

Dosing & administration

Beta-carotene is found in many fruits and vegetables. Eating five servings of fruits and vegetables daily provides 6-8 mg of beta-carotene. Many global health authorities recommend getting beta-carotene and other antioxidants from food instead of supplements. Regularly taking beta-carotene supplements for general use isn't recommended. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

Interactions with pharmaceuticals

Niacin

Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Niacin can increase good cholesterol levels. Taking beta-carotene along with vitamin E, vitamin C, and selenium can decrease the effects of niacin on good cholesterol levels. It is not known if beta-carotene alone decreases the effects of niacin on good cholesterol levels.

Interactions with herbs & supplements

Lutein: Taking beta-carotene supplements might lower levels of lutein in the body.

Interactions with foods

Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol and eating products that contain olestra, a fat substitute, can reduce beta-carotene levels in the body.