Saturday, June 2, 2012

Vitamin A and the carotenoids

Carotrenoids: Carotenoids are fat soluble pigments and are potent family of antioxidants that include alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin. Fat in the diet is very essential for proper absorption of carotenoids. The body converts beta-carotene into Vitamin A as needed. 

Vitamin A: Vitamin A is involved in cell communication, vision, reproduction and immune function. Vitamin A is technically known as retinol. Vitamin A also functions as important hormone-like growth factor in a oxidized form known as retinoic acid.
Signs of deficiency:
  • Night blindness
Effective for:
  • Infection fighter
  • Decrease risk of cataract and age related macular degeneration
  • AIDS
  • Acne
  • Psoriasis
  • Pulmonary diseases-emphysema
  • Digestive ailments- colitis, crohn’s disease, duodenal ulcer
  • Cancer
  • Women's health concern-premenstrual syndromes, menopausal symptoms, for pregnancy related complications. 
  • Wound healing
  • Blood sugar disorders
Recommended Dose:
An average adult should consume 5,000 IU of vitamin A daily. For retinol-deficiency-related illness up to 100,000 IU per day.


Beta-carotene: A potent antioxidant in its own right.
Effective for:
  • Cancer
  • Heart disease-Angina, increase the level of protective HDL cholesterol
  • Immune reinforcement
Lutein and zexanthin: Lutein and zexanthin are concentrated in the macular, the true- centre of sight at the back of the retina.
Effective for:
  • Protect the eyes
  • Ward off cataracts
  • Reduce risk of macular degeneration
Lycopene: Lycopene is the pigments that colors tomatoes and watermelons.
Effective for:
  • Cancer- breast, lung, endometrium, prostate
Recommended Dose:
Ideal source of carotenoid supplements are those derived from algae or whole food concentrates. For preventive care 10,000-25,000 IU, 75,000 IU for cancer fighting.

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