Carotenes are substances found in food which can be converted to vitamin A as the body requires. The best known carotene is Beta carotene which is readily converted to vitamin A and is abundant in many foods. Other carotenes include lycoopene, alpha carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin.
Carotenes are beneficial because they act as antioxidants and help protect the body against heart disease, cancer, eye damage and other disorders.
Absorption and metabolism
Carotenes require fat and bile acids for absorption.
Deficiency
Diets that are low in carotenes may lead to increased risk of cancer and heart disease.
Sources
Good sources include yellow, orange and dark green fruits and vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, broccoli, spinach and apricots. Some carotenes are used in the food industry as yellow food coloring.
Daily recommended dietary intakes
There is no RDA for beta carotene. Some experts recommend a daily intake of 10 to 30 mg.