Description

an orange or red plant pigment found in carrots and many other plant structures. It is a terpenoid hydrocarbon with several isomers, of which one ( beta-carotene ) is important in the diet as a precursor of vitamin A. Beta carotene is converted into vitamin A which is vital for the maintenance of healthy skin. Your body converts as much vitamin A from beta carotene as it needs; high doses of this vitamin can be toxic. The benefits of this pigment for skin are as follows.

1. Imparts a Healthy Glow:

Beta carotene prevents premature skin ageing by acting as an antioxidant, a substance that reduces oxygen damage caused by UV light, pollutions and other environmental hazards like smoking. Consumption of adequate levels of beta carotene imparts a natural glow to your skin, thus making it more attractive and beautiful. Excess intake however, should be avoided as it can cause the soles of your feet, palms of your hands, your nose and even the white portion of your eyes turn pumpkin yellow in color.

2. Reduces Sun Sensitivity:

High doses of beta carotene make your skin less sensitive to the sun. Thus, it is particularly beneficial for people with erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare genetic condition causing painful sun sensitivity as well as liver problems. Moreover, it can boost the effectiveness of sunscreen. Consumption of about 90 to 180 mg of beta carotene can reduce sunburn and provide an SPF of 4. Therefore, foods containing beta carotene or supplements can be coupled with sunscreen to enhance its effectiveness.

3. Treatment of Oral Leukoplakia:

Oral leukoplakia is a condition characterized by white lesions in the mouth or tongue which is caused by years of smoking or drinking alcohol. Consumption of beta carotene reduces the symptoms and risk of developing this condition. However, it is advisable to consult your physician before taking beta carotene supplements for treatment of leukoplakia.

4. Treatment of Scleroderma:

Scleroderma is a connective tissue disorder characterized by hardened skin. It occurs due to low levels of beta carotene in your blood. Beta carotene supplements are thought to be helpful for people with scleroderma. However, research is still going on in this regard and so you should consult your physician before using these supplements.

5. Treatment of Skin Conditions:

Beta carotene is effective in the treatment of skin conditions like dry skin, eczema and psoriasis. Vitamin A, being a powerful antioxidant, is involved in the growth and repair of body tissues and hence, protects the skin against damage. When applied externally, it helps in treating ulcers, impetigo, boils, carbuncles and open ulcers, and removes age spots. It also speeds up the healing of skin lesions, cuts and wounds.

Hair Benefits of Beta Carotene:

Beta carotene is converted to vitamin A in the body which is necessary for all cell growth including hair cells. Consumption of beta carotene can help you get rid of various hair problems. However, high doses of vitamin A can also cause hair loss .I is advisable to consume beta carotene from food sources rather than taking vitamin A supplements. Beta carotene is beneficial for your hair in the following ways.

6. Prevents Dandruff and Other Hair Problems:

Deficiency of vitamin A can cause dry, dull, lifeless hair and dry scalp which can flake off into dandruff. Hence, consumption of foods rich in beta carotene is inevitable for preventing these conditions.

7. Spurs Hair Growth:

Hair thinning, particularly among females, is caused due to poor nutrition. Thus, if you are suffering from hair loss, it is advisable to consume the recommended daily allowance of beta carotene to stop hair loss and encourage hair regrowth.