Carotenoids - Nutrition

Carotenoids are the natural source of colors in many fruits and vegetables. Carotenoids contribute to antioxidant activity in cellular lipids, support normal cellular growth and renewal and assist healthy levels of immune cell activity.* Carotenoids promote cardiovascular health, including support for a healthy antioxidant response to LDL cholesterol.* Additionally, carotenoids promote eye health and may slow down some of the effects of aging.*

There are more than 600 known carotenoids (e.g. alpha and beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein) and it appears they are most effective when several types are consumed together. Only 9% of Americans eat a minimum level of the fruits and vegetables in the daily diet that would provide the basic level of carotenoids needed.

Food Sources:

tomatoes
carrots
spinach
strawberries
apricots
red bell peppers
watermelon

When supplementing, look for products with:

whole food ingredients
a lipid-soluble base
naturally occurring in the human food chain

My Recommendation:

Carotenoid Complex

See also Flavonoids and Cruciferous
Go back to the Basic Nutrient Glossary

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*This statement has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

	Moss Greene BellaOnline's Nutrition Editor