What is beta carotene made from? Beta carotene in vitamins and its indications for use

Pharmacological group: provitamins
Beta-carotene is a highly colored red-orange pigment found abundantly in plants and fruits. It is an organic compound chemically classified as a hydrocarbon and a terpenoid (isoprenoid), that is, a derivative of isoprene. Beta-carotene is biosynthesized from geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate. It is a carotene, that is, a tetraterpene, biochemically synthesized from eight isoprene units and therefore has 40 carbon atoms. Beta-carotene differs from all carotenes by the presence of a beta ring at both ends of the molecule. The absorption of beta-carotene is increased when combined with fats, since carotenes are fat-soluble compounds.
Beta-carotene is found in carrots, pumpkin and sweet potatoes and is responsible for their orange coloring. Beta-carotene is the most common form of carotene in plants. As a food coloring, beta-carotene has the E number E160a. The structure of beta-carotene was first described by Carrère et al in 1930. In nature, beta-carotene is a precursor (inactive form) of vitamin A, and is converted to vitamin A through the action of beta-carotene 15,15"-monooxygenase. Isolation of beta-carotene from fruits rich in carotenoids is usually carried out using capillary chromatography. Isolation of beta -carotene from a mixture of other carotenoids is based on the polarity of the compound. Beta-carotene is a non-polar compound, so it is isolated using a non-polar solvent such as hexane. Being a highly conjugated compound, beta-carotene has a bright color. In addition, since there is no hydrocarbon lacks functional groups, this compound is very lipophilic (hydrophobic, fat-soluble).

Description of action

Natural carotene dye, the most active isomer of vitamin A and at the same time a provitamin and the main source of this vitamin. Causes a change in skin color (without scleral pigmentation) and also protects the skin from exposure sun rays. Bioavailability depends on the amount of fat in the diet and normal bile secretion. About 50% of β-carotene is converted to vitamin A directly in gastrointestinal tract; after absorption, the compound is again converted into a provitamin and in this form is stored in the body, mainly in adipose tissue and in the skin, where it exhibits protective activity against sunlight. A small amount of β-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the liver, and the excess is excreted in the feces.

Provitamin A activity

Plant carotenoids are the main provitamin A in food. Beta-carotene is the best-known provitamin A carotenoid. Other carotenoids include alpha-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin. The absorption of carotenoids is limited to the duodenum of the small intestine and depends on membrane protein phagocytic receptor class B (SR-B1), which is also responsible for the uptake of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol). One molecule of beta-carotene can be broken down by the intestinal beta enzyme, beta-carotene 15,15"-monooxygenase, into two molecules of vitamin A.
The absorption efficiency of beta-carotene, according to various estimates, ranges from 9 to 22%. The absorption and conversion of carotenoids may depend on the form of beta-carotene (which can be in cooked or raw vegetables or in dietary supplement form), the co-consumption of fats and oils with it, and the body's current stores of vitamin A and beta-carotene.

Symmetrical and asymmetrical cleavage

In the molecule, the chain between the two cyclohexyl rings of beta-carotene can be cleaved either symmetrically or asymmetrically. Symmetrical cleavage by the enzyme beta, beta-carotene-15, 15"-dioxygenase, requires the presence of the antioxidant alpha-tocopherol. As a result of this symmetrical cleavage, we obtain two equivalent molecules of retinal, each of which then produces retinol (vitamin A) and retinoic acid. Beta -carotene can also be asymmetrically cleaved into two asymmetric products: The product of beta-carotene asymmetric cleavage is beta-apocarothenal (8", 10", 12"). Asymmetric cleavage significantly reduces the amount of retinoic acid.

Methods for measuring vitamin A activity

Until recently, the activity of vitamin A in food was expressed as international units(ME). This measurement method is still used on food and dietary supplement labels. However, it is difficult to calculate total dietary vitamin A activity in terms of IU, since the absorption and conversion of carotenoids compared to retinol is variable. In 1967, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/World Health Organization developed the "retinol equivalent" (RE) unit. Later, in 2001, the US Institute of Medicine proposed introducing a unit of “retinol activity equivalent” (RAE) as an intake standard.

International units

1 RAE = 3.33 IU of vitamin A retinol activity
1 IU retinol = 0.3 mcg RAE
1 IU beta-carotene from dietary supplements = 0.15 mcg RAE
1 IU beta-carotene from food = 0.05 mcg RAE
1 IU alpha-carotene or beta-cryptoxanthin = 0.025 mcg RAE
(Source: Otten JJ, Hellwig JP, Meyers LD, eds. Dietary Values: An Essential Guide to Nutritional Requirements. Washington, DC:...National Academy Press; 2006).
Retinol equivalents (REs)
1 RE = 1 mcg retinol
1 RE = 6 mcg beta carotene
1 RE = 12 mcg other provitamin A carotenoids.
Retinol activity equivalents (RAEs)
1 RAE = 1 mcg retinol
1 RAE = 2 mcg all-trans beta-carotene as a supplement
1 RAE = 12 mcg all-trans beta-carotene in food matrix
1 RAE = 24 mcg of other provitamin A carotenes in the food matrix.

Sources of beta-carotene in the diet

Beta carotene is responsible for the orange color of many fruits and vegetables. Vietnamese gac oil and crude palm oil are particularly rich sources of beta-carotene, as are yellow and orange fruits such as melon, mango and papaya, and orange root vegetables such as carrots and yams. The color of beta-carotene is masked by chlorophyll in green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, sweet potato leaves and sweet pumpkin leaves. Vietnamese gac oils and raw palm oil contain large amounts of beta-carotene, more than any known fruit or vegetable, 10 times more than, for example, carrots. However, gak is quite rare and unknown outside of Southeast Asia, and crude palm oil is typically processed to remove the cartenoids to improve color and clarity before sale.
Based on a pooled analysis of 500,000 women living in the United States, Canada and some European countries, the average daily requirement for beta-carotene is 2-7 mg.

Indications for use

Treatment of erythropoietic protoporphyria, photodermatosis, allergic reactions to ultraviolet radiation and phototoxic reactions (exanthema multiforme, urticaria), pigmentation abnormalities (vitiligo).

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to any of the components of the drug, severe liver or kidney failure.

Interaction with other drugs

There is no data on the interaction of β-carotene with other drugs. During treatment with β-carotene, you should not take medications containing vitamin A.

Side effects of beta carotene

In some cases, moderate diarrhea, petechiae on the skin and joint pain. If too large doses are used, the skin turns an intense yellow color; therapeutic doses may cause slight yellowing of the skin. The most common side effect of excessive consumption of beta-carotene is carotenoderma, a physically harmless condition manifested by an orange tint to the skin due to the deposition of carotenoids in the upper layers of the epidermis. Chronic use of high doses of synthetic beta-carotene supplements is associated with a higher risk of lung cancer in smokers. In addition, beta-carotene intake from dietary supplements may increase the risk of prostate cancer, intracerebral hemorrhage, mortality due to cardiovascular disease and total mortality in smokers or people with high levels of asbestos exposure. Beta-carotene has a strong tendency to oxidize, more so than most dietary fats, and thus may, to some extent, accelerate oxidation more than other food colorings such as annatto.

Pregnancy and lactation

Category C. There is no data confirming the safety of β-carotene during lactation.

Dosage

Orally, usually at a dose of 1 mg/kg body weight. Treatment begins in spring and continues until autumn. To treat vetiligo, use 25 mg per day for 6–10 weeks; then a prophylactic dose of 25 mg per day. For the treatment of porphyria, use initially 50-200 mg/day in divided doses; then the dose is determined individually.

Note

β-carotene cannot be used in sunscreens; during dermatological treatment, filters with a high absorption coefficient of solar radiation should be used. During treatment, liver function tests should be carefully monitored.

Beta carotene overdose

Beta-carotene, a precursor form of vitamin A, is found in plants such as carrots. It is selectively converted into retinoids and therefore does not cause hypervitaminosis A, but excessive consumption can cause carotenosis, a benign condition that causes the skin to turn orange.
The proportion of carotenoids absorbed decreases as dietary intake increases. In the intestinal wall (mucosa), beta-carotene is partially converted into vitamin A (retinol) by the enzyme dioxygenase. This mechanism depends on the amount of vitamin A in the body. If the body has enough vitamin A, the conversion of beta-carotene is reduced. Thus, beta-carotene is a very safe source of vitamin A and high intake cannot lead to hypervitaminosis A. Excess beta-carotene is mainly stored in the fatty tissues of the body. The fat stores of adults often take on a yellow tint due to accumulated carotene, while the fat stores of infants are white. Excessive consumption of beta-carotene causes yellowing of the skin, but this effect is easily reversible when consumption is stopped.

Beta-Carotene Drug Interactions

Beta carotene may interact with cholesterol-lowering medications. Taking them together may reduce the effectiveness of these drugs. Beta carotene should not be taken with Orlistat, a weight loss drug, as Orlistat can reduce the absorption of beta carotene by as much as 30%. Bile acid secretants and proton pump inhibitors may also reduce the absorption of beta-carotene. Drinking alcohol with beta-carotene may reduce its ability to be converted into retinol and may possibly lead to hepatotoxicity.

Beta-carotene and lung cancer in smokers

Chronic intake of high doses of beta-carotene increases the risk of lung cancer in smokers, according to one study. This effect is especially noticeable when taking dietary supplements. No lung damage was found in patients exposed to cigarette smoke who took moderate doses of beta-carotene (6 mg) as opposed to high pharmacological doses (30 mg). Thus, the risk of cancer from beta-carotene supplementation is based on the combination of cigarette smoke and high daily doses of beta-carotene. There are at least two assumptions about the mechanism of the observed harmful influence high doses of beta-carotene in this group of individuals, but none of them are yet widely accepted.
The effects of high doses are explained by the fact that when retinoic acid binds to RAR-beta (retinoic acid receptor beta), the complex binds AP1 (activating protein-1). AP1 is a transcription factor that binds to DNA and subsequently promotes cell proliferation. Thus, in the presence of retinoic acid, the retinoic acid:RAR-beta complex binds to AP1 and inhibits AP-1 binding to DNA. In this case, AP1 expression ceases and cell proliferation is not observed. Cigarette smoke increases the asymmetric breakdown of beta-carotene, significantly reducing retinoic acid levels in the body. This may lead to higher cell proliferation in smokers, and therefore a higher likelihood of lung cancer.
Another breakdown product of beta-carotene is suspected of causing cancer at high doses, trans-beta-apo-8"-aldehyde carotenoid (apocarotenal), which was found in one study to be mutagenic and genotoxic in cell cultures.

Medical Uses of Beta Carotene

Beta-carotene is used to treat various disorders such as erythropoietic protoporphyria. It is also used to reduce the risk of breast cancer in women before menopause, as well as to reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Beta carotene and cancer treatment

There is still debate about whether beta-carotene is effective in treating various forms of cancer. Studies have shown that patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia have a positive response to beta-carotene; however, high levels of beta-carotene have been found to increase the risk of lung cancer in people who smoke regularly or have smoked in the past. Beta-carotene is used to help prevent breast cancer, although there is currently no evidence to show that foods high in beta-carotene can help reduce the risk of breast cancer.

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Everyone knows the benefits of carrots, pumpkin, citrus fruits and other products containing beta carotene. But instead of getting carotene through diet, you can use it externally - apply it directly to the skin. Moreover, the benefits of such care will actually be comparable to a daily glass of fresh carrot juice! The fact is that when applied externally, carotene is very easily absorbed into the skin.

Carotene- perhaps the best ingredient when it comes to a beautiful skin tone, tone and UV protection. Natural carotene in cosmetics also acts as a powerful antioxidant that will help restore a radiant complexion and rejuvenate the skin. There are two forms of carotene - alpha and beta. The latter is predominantly used in the production of cosmetics. Beta-carotene is probably the best known of the largest family of natural coloring compounds - pigments produced by nature - the carotenoids.

Synonyms:ß-Carotene, Karotin; KPMK; Carotene. Patented formulas: ß-Carotene Liposystem Complex®, Phytodermina ß, beta-Carotene / Reference Material, Food Orange 5; Natural Yellow 26; C.I. 75130; Serlabo, IBR-AAC® 501, Gs-BC.

Effect of beta-carotene in cosmetics

Beta-carotene or simply carotene is the head of the carotenoid family, which also includes the well-known antioxidant lycopene. If we consider its functions in more detail, then carotene is a pigment that is indirectly important for the synthesis of melanogenesis, that is, for the formation of a tan. It is noteworthy that even without exposure to ultraviolet radiation, carotene helps give the skin a healthy golden tint, however, in order to achieve a pronounced change, this component must be consumed internally; cosmetics containing carotene rarely stain the skin. However, carotene also functions as a pigment in cosmetics.

In cosmetics, its antioxidant activity is more important - carotene protects the skin from premature aging due to the effects of negative factors that are so widespread in modern life. environment: ultraviolet radiation, air pollution, etc. This antioxidant strengthens the protective barrier (hydrolipid mantle) of the skin and reduces the risk of DNA damage, which not only helps prevent aging, but also prevents malignant cell degeneration. Beta-carotene provides sun protection and prevents unwanted skin pigmentation.

In addition, carotene prevents and heals damage to the skin surface, effectively relieves redness, both caused by environmental triggers (sun and pollution) and associated with inflammatory processes in the skin (rosacea, acne). Beta-carotene also improves skin texture - it strengthens intercellular connections and normalizes processes associated with cellular metabolism, which are responsible for how cells in the dermis and epidermis grow and multiply. Carotene also strengthens the skin by increasing its ability to produce collagen, which helps prevent the formation of wrinkles.

Who is beta-carotene indicated for?

Carotene provides natural care that improves the health and appearance of the skin. The introduction of beta-carotene into cleansers and hand creams helps prevent skin irritation, itching, soften the skin, helps reduce dryness and heal scratches, cracks, and improve its general condition. The introduction of beta-carotene into hair care products allows you to solve the problems of hair fragility, uneven structure, and split ends. Cosmetics containing this provitamin are, perhaps, the best choice for routine facial skin care, especially those that are characterized by the following five problems.

• To soften, hydrate and protect skin from daily stressors such as sun and pollution.
• For healing - stimulation of the restoration of natural processes of regeneration of epidermal and dermal cells.
• To reduce inflammation - carotene perfectly relieves irritation from acne, rosacea, rosacea.
• To combat wrinkles and symptoms of aging: Beta carotene helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and restore a radiant, golden complexion to the skin. The anti-aging effect is also supported by the protective, nutritional properties of this component, as well as increasing the level of skin hydration.
• For a beautiful tan (including in a solarium) and reducing the risk of burns and skin peeling. Some people who burn easily in the sun, including those with the inherited disease erythropoietic protoporphyria, may benefit from using beta-carotene to reduce the risk of sunburn.

Who should beta-carotene be contraindicated for?

When used externally, it is a safe component. Unlike vitamin A, the precursor of which is carotene, it is non-toxic. Carotene does not cause skin irritation, which often happens when using forms of vitamin A (retinoids). A strict contraindication is an individual hypersensitivity reaction.

Cosmetics containing beta-carotene

Carotene is mostly included in protective, nourishing and rejuvenating lines of facial skin care cosmetics. It is also often found in children's cosmetics. The sun-protective properties of carotene are widely used in tanning products, which provide not only the prevention of photodamage, but also a uniform, smooth tan. Less commonly, beta-carotene is included in hair care products, hygiene products and decorative cosmetics.

You need to use such cosmetics quickly: all carotenoids are extremely susceptible to oxidation and somewhat less susceptible to light. Using antioxidants such as tocopherol or ascorbic acid in combination with beta-carotene can reduce the loss of its valuable properties during storage.

Sources of beta carotene

Beta-carotene, a plant component, has been used for centuries to provide foods (and subsequently skin) with a yellow to orange hue. Beta-carotene - provitamin A - is found naturally in the pulp of yellow, orange and red fruits and vegetables such as carrots, pumpkins, melons, citrus fruits and persimmons. For the production of cosmetics and personal care products, it is either synthesized artificially in the laboratory or obtained from natural plant sources. Nowadays, natural carotene is used in the vast majority of cases for the production of cosmetics, and synthetically produced beta-carotene is used mainly in the paint and varnish industry.

Like all carotenoids, it is insoluble in water and practically insoluble in oil, although some commercial forms are a suspension containing 30% micronized beta-carotene, readily soluble in fats at high temperatures. Beta-carotene is stable to heat (temperatures below 100°C).

Firstly, beta-carotene is a source of vitamin A, which is traditionally considered one of the so-called skin vitamins. Vitamin A is very important for the proper formation and growth of skin cells. Its deficiency can manifest itself in dry skin and mucous membranes, and is also accompanied by impaired regeneration: wounds heal slowly, scars remain on the skin for a long time, cracks often appear, etc.

Secondly, beta-carotene is involved in the antioxidant protection of the skin, that is, it fights excess free radicals. Therefore, vitamins for the skin are primarily antioxidants.

Thirdly, beta-carotene strengthens the functioning of the immune system, which largely determines the health of the skin.

Why is tanning dangerous?

Tanning begins with the skin turning red.

This phenomenon is called physiological erythema. Then the skin gradually darkens, acquiring a tan color. However, if you do not calculate the time of exposure to the sun, instead of tanning, erythema turns into sunburn, which is a serious and painful injury. But tanning is dangerous not only because it can cause sunburn. Any excess exposure to sun and ultraviolet light damages cells by disrupting DNA structure, suppresses the immune system and leads to oxidative stress in the body.

As a result, the level of antioxidants in both the blood and skin decreases. In addition, the negative effect of UV radiation is one of the main reasons leading to deterioration in the appearance of the skin, early aging, precancerous and cancerous diseases. The damaging effect of ultraviolet radiation is due to the fact that it causes massive formation of free radicals and reactive oxygen species.

Why is antioxidant skin protection needed?

Our skin is regularly exposed to various negative factors (polluted air, exposure to the ultraviolet part of the spectrum (UV) sunlight, etc.), which accelerate the formation of free radicals in the body. They, in turn, damage the genetic material and disrupt the structure of collagen and elastin of the skin. Gradually, damage accumulates, which can lead to premature aging and even various skin diseases.

Antioxidants fight free radicals, neutralizing them and converting them into compounds that are safe for the body. However, with prolonged exposure to negative factors, the amount of antioxidants in the skin decreases. Therefore, it is necessary to “replenish” the supply of antioxidants in the skin by taking them additionally in the form of special preparations with vitamins for the skin. This will protect your skin from the harmful effects of free radicals.

How does beta-carotene protect skin from ultraviolet rays?

Beta carotene is good for tanning! It not only improves the condition of the skin, but also protects against the ultraviolet component of sunlight by increasing antioxidant activity. Beta-carotene absorbs free radicals, acting as a “shield” for the skin. Some scientists believe that the length of time you take beta-carotene may be more important than the dose when it comes to protecting your skin from the sun.

Taking beta-carotene several weeks before starting active tanning (in a solarium) or constant sun exposure ensures the accumulation of this substance in the skin. Beta-carotene reduces skin sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation and reduces the severity of sunburn, resulting in increased time of safe sun exposure. The protective effect of beta-carotene is enhanced in the presence of other antioxidants such as vitamins C and E.

What is carotenoderma?

An increase in beta-carotene levels in the skin can cause pigmentation. When large amounts of beta-carotene are taken, it accumulates in the skin and gives it a yellow-gold color, similar to a tan. This phenomenon is called carotenoderma. Minor carotenoderma is sometimes considered a beautiful and healthy skin condition due to its similarity to tanning. Unlike tanning, with carotenoderma the skin is colored without the participation of ultraviolet radiation. Carotenoderma really does not have any negative consequences, is not toxic and goes away after discontinuation of beta-carotene medications.

How is beta-carotene used in the prevention and treatment of skin diseases?

The widespread use of beta-carotene in the treatment and prevention of skin diseases is explained by the fact that it is a source of vitamin A.

A lack of vitamin A can lead to various extensive skin lesions, since the lack of this substance impairs cell growth and differentiation. In particular, with vitamin A deficiency, metaplasia (the transformation of one body tissue into another) and keratinization (keratinization of tissue as a result of the deposition of keratin cells in it) occur. Violation of the protective function of the skin and decreased immunity leads to a decrease in the resistance of the entire body to infections.

Beta-carotene is also used to prevent and treat skin diseases caused by adverse factors external environment, including UV radiation. Scientists studied the effect of beta-carotene, as well as its combination with vitamin E, on the occurrence of erythema in healthy people under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. As a result, it was found that the parameter characterizing the degree of skin damage due to erythema was 1.5-2 times lower in the group taking beta-carotene than in the control group. The most effective was the use of beta-carotene and vitamin E simultaneously for 8-12 weeks.

Beta-carotene preparations are widely used in complex therapy for various skin diseases. For example, in a study conducted at the Department of Skin and Venereal Diseases of the MMA named after. THEM. Sechenov, "Vetoron", a preparation of beta-carotene and vitamin E, has shown effectiveness in complex treatment a number of skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis.

Experts say that it is especially important for every person to enrich their body daily with a substance such as beta-carotene. What it is? Read on.

Beta-carotene - what is it?

“Elixir of youth”, “source of longevity”, “natural protective weapon” - these names characterize a unique substance. It's called beta-carotene. What it is? Let's try to figure it out.

Scientists note: provitamin A or, in other words, beta-carotene, E160a, is a yellow-orange plant pigment that belongs to the carotenoids group. These substances are formed during the process of photosynthesis. Fungi, algae and bacteria also produce beta-carotene. This dye is capable of being converted into retinol (vitamin A) in the body.

Beta-carotene: properties

To slow down the aging process in the body, reduce the risk of developing infectious diseases To strengthen the immune system, experts recommend consuming foods that contain beta-carotene. What is it and what are its functions?

First: provitamin A is necessary for cell growth.

Second: beta-carotene restores vision.

Third: E160a supports healthy nails, hair and skin.

Fourth: beta-carotene is needed for the full functioning of the sweat glands.

Fifth: provitamin A affects the development of the embryo during pregnancy.

Sixth: E160a strengthens the enamel of teeth and bones.

The benefits of beta-carotene compared to vitamin A

E160a is much healthier than regular retinol. It turns out that with an overdose of vitamin A, the following symptoms are observed: nausea, vomiting, joint pain, itching, abdominal cramps, and digestive tract disorders.

Beta carotene does not cause these side effects. The fundamental advantage of E160a is that it is completely non-toxic and large quantities does not pose a threat to human health.

Provitamin A has the ability to be deposited in the depot (subcutaneous fat). Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the amount necessary for the human body at a specific stage of its functioning.

How is beta-carotene absorbed in the body?

The above vitamin is absorbed in the intestines. The absorption of beta-carotene depends on such factors as the completeness of the rupture of cell membranes. Scientists say: it is because of this that whole carrots are digested much worse than, for example,

In addition, experts note that heat treatment of products helps to destroy 30% of this vitamin.

Beta-carotene, like all carotenoids, belongs to this group. This means that fats are necessary for its absorption. Therefore, doctors recommend eating carrots with sour cream or vegetable oil.

It should be noted that provitamin A is accompanied by extremely important antioxidants such as vitamin E and C. They enhance the effect of each other. Vitamin E also promotes better absorption of the above substance.

Provitamin A deficiency in the human body

If an insufficient amount of E160a enters the body, the following problems may occur:

• “night blindness” (when vision deterioration is observed in low light);
• redness of the eyelids, dry mucous membranes of the eyes, watery vision in the cold;
• dry skin;
• dandruff and split ends;
• brittle nails;
• frequent viral infections;
• increased sensitivity of tooth enamel.

The reasons that lead to the above symptoms are different. This is primarily an unbalanced diet. That is, foods with a limited amount of fats and complete proteins are consumed.

Secondly, the cause of deficiency of this vitamin is also metabolic disorders due to too intensive use of E160a.

In addition, various diseases of the liver, pancreas and biliary tract can provoke a lack of the above substance.

Daily requirement for provitamin A

It is known that the body of every person needs to receive beta-carotene daily. Vitamin E160a is essential, and its daily requirement is about 5 mg.

There are some groups of people for whom it is primarily important to provide their body with the above substance:

• if they live in environmentally unfavorable areas;
• exposed to x-rays;
• state of pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• if you are taking medications that interfere with fat absorption.

It is also interesting that people living in colder climates need less beta-carotene than those living in hotter climates.

Which foods contain the above provitamin A?

Interestingly, yellow plants have the lowest E160a content, orange-colored plants have the average, and bright red products have the highest.

Beta-carotene in products contains the following:

• in vegetables (carrots, pumpkin, spinach, cabbage, zucchini, broccoli, sweet potato, green peas);
• in fruits (melon, apricots, cherries, mangoes, plums, nectarines).

Carrots are the leader among all the above products. It contains about 6.6 mg of provitamin A.

Beta-carotene is also found in foods such as:

• mustard;
• green beet leaves.

The concentration of this substance in vegetables and fruits depends on the degree of ripeness and time of year.

Carotene enjoys well-deserved popularity in cosmetology. It not only allows you to restore the natural radiant tone of the skin and restore its tone, but also promotes the regeneration of the epidermis. In addition, carotene is an excellent antioxidant and reliably protects the skin from the dangerous effects of radiation and ultraviolet rays.

Among all forms of carotenoids, beta forms turned out to be the most interesting for cosmetologists. Provitamin A is used in many cosmetics.

Beta-carotene is necessary for the formation of an even and healthy tan during the synthesis of melanin. It is worth adding that even without ultraviolet exposure, carotene gives the face a radiant appearance. This effect can be achieved with an integrated approach - using cosmetics with provitamin and taking beta-carotene preparations internally.

1. In cosmetic products, the role of carotene as a pigment is important, but not paramount. Its antioxidant properties are more relevant. They help slow down premature aging processes. The fact is that when exposed to carotene, the skin’s protective barrier (its hydrolipid mantle) is not only strengthened, but also the risk of damage to DNA molecules is reduced. This prevents skin aging and prevents healthy cells from degenerating into cancer cells. Beta carotene protects open areas body from ultraviolet rays and prevents skin pigmentation.
2. Carotene has a healing effect, relieves redness, relieves the face of acne, rosacea and other skin inflammations.
3. The texture of the skin changes as intercellular connections are strengthened, metabolic processes are normalized, and its ability to produce collagen increases. As a result, it rejuvenates and becomes more elastic, wrinkles disappear, and the tissues are filled with moisture.

Carotene is a natural component for the health and beauty of the skin, and cosmetics based on it are an ideal option for daily care. Being present in creams, carotene moisturizes and softens the skin, prevents irritation, improves general state. As part of hair care products, it helps fight split ends, fragility, dullness and hair loss.

Using products with beta-carotene is especially important for those who have the following problems:

• wounds and inflammation of the skin. B-carotene promotes the regeneration of skin cells and rapid healing;
• drying and peeling of the skin due to the influence of negative environmental factors;
• acne, rosacea and rosacea. When treated with a carotenoid, the fat balance of the skin is normalized, the surface becomes smooth, and the color is natural;
• first signs of aging, shallow wrinkles. Preparations with beta-carotene restore the skin's hydrobalance and plump it up. nutrients and smooth out folds and wrinkles;
• erythropoietic protoporphyria. If you have a genetic disease characterized by increased susceptibility to exposure to sunlight, you can only sunbathe using protective products that contain beta-carotene.

Are there any contraindications?

There is no internal concern when taking a carotenoid, as there is when using retinol. Provitamin is absolutely non-toxic. However, some patients may experience individual intolerance and hypersensitivity to carotene - they should refrain from taking capsules and tablets.

Cosmetics containing beta-carotene

Where to look for cosmetics with beta-carotene? Provitamin is mainly found in cosmetic preparations of three types:

1. Rejuvenating. B-carotene is present in most manufacturers' lines of anti-aging cosmetics and is included in moisturizing and soothing creams.
2. Children's. It has a beneficial effect on the delicate skin of the child, promotes rapid healing of wounds and abrasions.
3. Sun protection. Promotes an even, radiant tan without burns or photodamage to the skin.

In addition, beta-carotene can be found in intimate hygiene products, shampoos and conditioners, and even in decorative cosmetics.

The shelf life of cosmetics with beta-carotenes is shortened, since carotenoids are especially sensitive to light and quickly oxidize in air. To prevent the loss of valuable provitamins A from being so significant when using a cosmetic product, it is recommended to add antioxidants to the composition, namely ascorbic acid and tocopherol.

Natural sources of beta-carotene for the cosmetic industry

The popularity of beta-carotene has lasted for hundreds of years. It has been used for centuries as a yellow-orange pigment. He has always been a source of health and beauty. In its natural form, provitamin is found in the pulp of fruits and vegetables that are yellow, red and even green. First of all, these are carrots, as well as oranges, lemons and other citruses. There is a lot of carotene in pumpkin and persimmon.

To obtain natural beta-carotene in cosmetology, it is synthesized from food products. As an alternative to natural, some cosmetic products use artificial carotene, the benefits of which are comparable in value, but it can cause individual intolerance.

Carotenoids cannot exist in the form aqueous solutions by virtue of their physical features. They dissolve only a little as you enter. Beta-carotene does not lose its properties during heat treatment and is not destroyed at high temperatures up to 100 degrees Celsius.