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 Background Information |
| Beta-carotene is one of a group of compounds called carotenoids that are part of the red, yellow, and orange pigments found in plant foods. Beta-carotene is a precursor of vitamin A. It is well known for its antioxidant properties. Beta-carotene is found in dark green leafy vegetables and yellow-orange fruits and vegetables. |
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| Effects on Health |
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| Epidemiological studies during the past 25 years have indicated that diets high in carotenoid-rich fruits and vegetables, as well as high serum levels of beta-carotene, are associated with a reduced risk for several chronic diseases including heart disease, cataracts, and some cancers. However, three large-scale clinical trials concluded that beta-carotene provided no protection against lung cancer or cardiovascular disease. There is also evidence that the antioxidant activity of beta-carotene and other carotenoids at very high levels my shift into prooxidant activity inducing oxidative stress. |
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| Dietary Recommendation |
| There is no dietary reference intake for beta-carotene and other carotenoids because the research is not sufficient enough to support any recommendation at this time. |
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| Effects on Performance |
| Strenuous exercise increases oxygen consumption with an increase in the production of free radicals. Beta-carotene may protect tissues against oxidative damage. In most studies involving exercise induced lipid peroxidation, beta-carotene was used in combination with other antioxidants such as vitamin E and vitamin C, making it difficult to determine if beta-carotene or other substances are responsible for any positive effects. |
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| Supplement Range |
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- Athletes who habitually consume low levels of antioxidants may be at greater risk for the harmful effects of free radicals.
- Athletes should be encouraged to eat a balanced diet that includes frequent servings of carotenoid-rich fruits and vegetables.
- While mega doses or long term supplementation of beta-carotene is not warranted, there is no evidence that small amounts of supplemental beta-carotene (< 6 mg) is harmful to any population, including athletes.
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Beta-carotene
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