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Food and Diet - your online resource for everything diet-related
Apricots are just one beta-carotene rich food.

It has been shown in
studies that the synthetic versions of beta carotene are not as effective as naturally occuring sources (food).

So, if you're truly
interested in your health, eat the right foods to take in the beta carotene you need.

Also note that beta carotene is fat-soluble.
That means that a small amount of fat is necessary for the body to pick up the nutrient. Keep this in mind when preparing meals to achieve the optimum absorption of beta carotene.

Vitamins - what they are and how they work
Beta Carotene
Also known as : Pro-Vitamin A

Type of vitamin : fat soluble - this means that it is stored by the body and does not need to be consumed daily.

USRDA : Men - 3000 IU, Women - 2700 IU

Sources: Beta carotene can be found in the following foods:

Functions: Beta carotene is necessary for:

  • proper functioning of the eyes
  • proper functioning of the immune system
  • healthy hair
  • healthy bones
  • healthy teeth
  • healthy nails

Deficiencies : Beta carotene deficiency (not enough) can result in:

  • acne
  • allergies
  • blindness
  • brittle hair
  • brittle nails
  • dry eyes
  • dry skin
  • frequent colds or infections
  • insomnia
  • loss of appetite
  • night blindness
  • reduced hair growth (children)
  • reduced resistance to infection
  • rough skin

Overdose : Beta carotene overdose (too much) can result in:

  • blurred vision
  • bone pain
  • diarrhea
  • dry, cracked skin
  • fatigue
  • hair loss
  • headaches
  • irregular menstrual periods
  • joint pain
  • liver damage
  • skin rashes
  • vomiting


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