Beta-carotene & Blood Lipids

Beta-carotene is a dark-orange pigment found in many fruits and vegetables, most notably carrots. Your body is able to convert it to retinol, which is why it is called a precursor to vitamin A. Beta-carotene is a member of the carotene family, which are all strong antioxidants able to affect various factors within blood. Excessive lipids or fats in your blood increase your risk of atherosclerosis, or clogged arteries. Research has shown that consuming plenty of beta-carotene can reduce the amount of lipids or triglycerides circulating in your blood. Consult your doctor before supplementing with beta-carotene.

Beta-Carotene

Beta-carotene is converted to retinol in your body, which is the main type of vitamin A required for clear vision, strong immunity and healthy skin and mucus membranes. Your body only converts as much beta-carotene as it needs, so consuming large amounts from food is completely safe. However, too much beta-carotene or vitamin A in supplement form can cause toxicity problems in large doses, especially in smokers, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant able to protect blood vessels and other tissues from the damaging effects of free radicals. Beta-carotene is also fat-soluble, which is related to its effect on blood lipids.

Effect on Blood Lipids

Beta-carotene is carried by fatty compounds called lipoproteins, especially the low-density types. Cholesterol that is considered harmful is also within low-density lipoproteins, or LDL. Serum levels of beta-carotene are correlated to serum cholesterol levels, and there is evidence that beta-carotene can reduce triglycerides in blood. A study published in a 2004 edition of "Nutrition Research" found that when diabetic rats were given moderate levels of supplemental beta-carotene for three weeks, their plasma triglycerides were reduced and they excreted more cholesterol in their stools. Beneficial HDL cholesterol levels were not affected, and the researchers concluded that supplementation with beta-carotene may decrease the incidence of vascular complications through the normalization of lipid metabolism.

Precautions

The University of Maryland Medical Center points out that dietary beta-carotene seems to protect against some kinds of cancer, although supplemental forms may increase the risk of heart disease and cancer in those who smoke or drink heavily. If you are a heavy smoker or drinker, then consult with your doctor before taking beta-carotene supplements. Minor side effects associated with moderate-to-heavy intake of beta-carotene include temporary skin discoloration, loose stools and easier-than-normal bruising.

Food Sources

Especially rich food sources of beta-carotene include carrots, yams, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, winter squash, broccoli and tomatoes, according to "American Dietetic Association Complete Food and Nutrition Guide." In general, the greater the intensity of the color of the fruit or vegetable, the more beta-carotene it contains.