What is beta-carotene?

Beta-carotene is a provitamin, which means that your body can convert it into a vitamin. In this case, beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A in the body.

Beta-carotene supports the same functions as vitamin A:
- Resistance support
- Being able to see well
- Healthy skin
- Maintaining normal mucous membranes

Beta-carotene gives fruits and vegetables their characteristic orange and yellow color.

What is beta-carotene in?

Beta-carotene is found in:
- (dark) green leafy vegetables, such as spinach
- Cabbages
- Carrots
- Mangoes
- Tangerines

How much beta-carotene do you need?

There is no official RDA (recommended daily allowance) for beta-carotene.

👉 In the body, it is converted to vitamin A by a factor of 1:12. This means that 1 microgram of vitamin A is equivalent to 12 micrograms of beta-carotene.

What is safe?

- The body does not convert more beta-carotene into vitamin A than is needed.
- As a result, high intake does not lead to excessive vitamin A levels.

⚠️ According to the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), there is an upper limit of 15 mg per day via supplements. This advice applies to everyone, including heavy smokers.

Deficiency of beta-carotene

- There are no known specific effects of beta-carotene deficiency itself.
- Too little beta-carotene may well lead to insufficient vitamin A production.
- A vitamin A deficiency can cause symptoms such as poor vision, decreased resistance and skin problems.

Too much beta-carotene

- Too much can lead to carotinemia: a harmless discoloration of the skin (orange/yellowish).
- Your gut automatically regulates the conversion to vitamin A; therefore, it does not create an excessive vitamin A supply.
- ⚠️ For smokers, extra caution: high doses of beta-carotene (>15 mg/day via supplements) may increase the risk of lung cancer (Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene Lung Cancer Prevention Study).

Spiritual meaning ✨

Beta-carotene is often associated with the solar plexus chakra (Manipura) 🌞. It carries energy, life force and protection, just as the orange color symbolizes vitality and optimism. Eating beta-carotene-rich foods (such as carrots and mangoes) not only strengthens your physical health, but also your inner fire and perseverance.