What Are Carotenoids?

Carotenoids ar natural compounds produced by the chloroplasts of plants, algae, bacteria, and fungi. Since these molecules absorb light in the blue spectrum, foods containing them often appear yellow, orange, or red. Interestingly, this blue light easily excites other molecules to form free radicals, so by absorbing it, carotenoids act as antioxidants.

Scientists have identified more than 600 of these nutrients. However, they continue to discover new members of this compound family. Two major classifications are carotenes, an oxygenated form of carotenoid, and xanthophylls, which do not contain oxygen. Common xanthophylls are astaxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin. The most well-known carotenes are lycopene and beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is the only carotenoid discussed in this article that humans can convert into vitamin A.

What Do Carotenoids Do?

Each one of these nutrients performs unique functions in the body. Most also act as antioxidants that neutralize free radicals. Many support eye health, healthy vision, and healthy aging. Some may also help protect cells from abnormal growth.

What Are The Types of Carotenoids?

Beta Carotene

The liver converts beta-carotene into vitamin A as needed. Many people choose beta-carotene instead of vitamin A supplements to reduce toxicity risk. Any unused beta-carotene continues to act as a powerful antioxidant.

Lycopene

Lycopene is the carotene pigment molecule that gives ripe tomatoes their bright red colour. It is a potent antioxidant with affinity for the prostate gland that may help lower the risk of unhealthy cell growth.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Lutein and zeaxanthin work in the eye as antioxidants. Studies show that lutein and zeaxanthin protect the eye from damage and can reduce the incidence of eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts.

Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is the carotenoid that gives shrimp and lobster their red colour after cooking. It is a strong antioxidant and plays a role in protecting the eye, heart, and liver as well as preventing diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

Taking Carotenoids As A Supplement

The carotenoids are most effective when taken together in a complex, likely because this is how they exist in food. It is recommended to use a natural beta-carotene or carotenoid complex for the best results. Some companies extract natural carotenoid complex from sea algae, to create a product called "Betatene".

Important Information

Some medications can reduce carotenoid absorption. These include cholestyramine, mineral oil, and certain cholesterol-lowering medications. Researchers have not adequately studied most carotenoid supplements during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Healthcare practitioners recommend obtaining carotenoids from food during these stages.