Carotenoids play a crucial role in our health, providing us with a wealth of benefits through their antioxidant properties.
What is this?
Carotenoids are brightly colored organic pigments derived primarily from fruits and vegetables. They are responsible for the vibrant hue of these foods, ranging from yellow to bright red. Among the best known, we have carotene , an orange pigment present particularly in carrots and apricots.
Carotenoids have a real health issue. Precautions are therefore recommended with consumption of less than 20mg per day. In particular, high doses of beta-carotene are not recommended for smokers. Excessive intake of a specific carotenoid can promote a dietary imbalance.
There are a variety of carotenoids known for their benefits, such as lycopene present in tomatoes and watermelons. It is consumed on average between 5 and 25mg per day depending on the country and the seasons. Another example is astaxanthin , a carotenoid extracted from marine crustaceans or microscopic algae, used in tanning products. It appears to have favorable effects on muscular endurance and sperm mobility.
The multiple benefits of carotenoids
Among the singular forces are carotenoids . These micronutrients play a major role in defending our immune system. The latter are pigments responsible for the orange coloring found in a large number of fruits and vegetables, such as carrots. There are more than 600 different varieties, among which beta-carotene and lycopene are the most recognized.
Beta-carotene has the particularity of being a precursor of vitamin A, essential to our body. In a situation of vitamin A deficiency, our body is able to transform this carotenoid into vitamin A, a process crucial for the proper functioning of our body. Another advantage of beta-carotene is its antioxidant activity, which blocks free radicals, these unstable molecules that can cause harm to our cells.
As for lycopene , this carotenoid present in particular in tomatoes and watermelons, a daily consumption of 5 to 25 mg is commonly observed, varying according to country and season. It stands out for its ability to prevent certain diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity while strengthening the immune system.
However, it is important to take certain precautions with carotenoids. As such, it is recommended to limit intake to less than 20 mg per day and to avoid excessive quantities of beta-carotene in smokers, or to avoid massive consumption of a particular carotenoid, in order to prevent any dietary imbalance. Taken in large quantities, beta-carotene can increase the risk of lung cancer, particularly in smokers or people already exposed to high doses of beta-carotene.
The crucial role of carotenoids in human health
Carotenoids , which include compounds like beta-carotene and lycopene , are known to play a crucial role in human health. Carotenoids can be transformed into vitamin A , which is essential for our growth and health.
Beta-carotene , in particular, contributes to the production of vitamin A by our body, proving vital if our vitamin A intake is insufficient. You find this carotenoid in several fruits and vegetables, where it is present as an orange pigment.
Another carotenoid of note is lycopene , found in tomatoes and watermelons. Its intake varies between 5 and 25 mg per day depending on the country and the season. Additionally, astaxanthin , another carotenoid extracted from marine crustaceans or microscopic algae, is used in tanning products. It appears to have a positive effect on muscular endurance and sperm motility.
