Have your doctors recommended eating carrots for better health? You might be curious about why carrots are emphasized. The secret behind this orange vegetable is a component known as beta-carotene. From the family of pigments called carotenoids comes beta carotene. A common ingredient in fruits and vegetables responsible for orange, yellow, and red hues, beta carotene is a carotenoid that gets converted by the body into Vitamin A, essential for healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting skin health.
Why Do You Need Beta Carotene For Vision Health?
A provitamin A carotenoid, beta carotene is a key component of rhodopsin, a pigment in the retina that allows the eyes to see in low-light conditions. The deficiency of this vitamin can lead to night blindness. Here are other reasons for you to ensure that you have enough beta carotene in your system:
Reduces Risk Of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Beta carotene, as part of a diet rich in antioxidants, helps to reduce the risk of AMD, a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. Antioxidants help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
Combats Eye Infections
Vitamin A promotes the integrity of mucous membranes, including those in the eyes. This helps the eyes resist eye infections and maintain their protective barriers.
Promotes Healthy Tear Production
Adequate beta carotene in the body ensures proper tear production, which keeps the eyes moist and comfortable.
Supports The Health of Eye Cells
It aids in the repair and maintenance of epithelial cells, which make up the outer layer of the eye and other tissues.
Protects The Cornea
Vitamin A helps maintain the health of the cornea, which is the clear, protective layer at the front of the eye. A healthy cornea is essential for clear vision.
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To reap the benefits of beta carotene, include a variety of beta carotene-rich foods in your diet. Incorporating the following foods in your diet can get you enough beta carotene:
Carrots: One of the most well-known sources, carrots are versatile and can be enjoyed raw, cooked, or juiced.
Sweet Potatoes: High in beta carotene, sweet potatoes can be baked, mashed, or used in soups.
Butternut Squash: This orange-fleshed squash is a great source of beta-carotene and works well in soups and purees.
Pumpkin: Pumpkin is another excellent source and can be used in pies, soups, and roasted dishes.
Mangoes: Rich in beta carotene, mangoes are delicious and can be eaten fresh, added to smoothies, or used in desserts
Apricots: These small fruits contain beta-carotene and can be eaten fresh or dried.
Bell Peppers: These peppers are packed with beta-carotene and can be eaten raw in salads or cooked in various dishes.
Cantaloupe: This sweet melon is high in beta-carotene and makes a refreshing snack or can be added to fruit salads.
Also Read: Essential Oils: 5 Must-To-Add Oils To Your Eye Care Regimen For Vision Health
How Does Beta Carotene Contribute To Skin Health?
When it comes to skin, beta-carotene offers several benefits due to its power-packed antioxidant properties. Check out the infographic to learn five key skin benefits of beta-carotene
(This article is reviewed by M Sowmya Binu Health And Nutrition Expert)
Author Profile, Preeti Sharma
Preeti Sharma has a master’s in electronic media and mass communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.
References
Community Eye Health Journal – promoting improvement in eye health for over 20 years
Elmien Wolvaardt Ellison
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3483611/
https://www.cehjournal.org/
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