National Nursing Review : Nursing Study Resources & Health Tips

We’ve all heard of beta-carotene as a substance that helps get a great tan. However, this fat-soluble substance of the carotenoid family has other benefits for our health.

Beta carotene is a precursor of vitamin A and is characterized by a plant pigment yellow or orange tone that when ingested are converted into vitamin A in the liver and small intestine.

Foods rich in beta carotene have antioxidant properties that reduce the likelihood of developing cancer of the lung, mouth and stomach. Also, it has been shown that its active ingredients inhibit the growth of cancer cells and including the prostate. (more…)