Lexikon

Beta-carotene

Makes vegetables and fruits red, orange and yellow

The secondary plant substance beta-carotene (also provitamin A) belongs to the carotenoid family. These give various vegetables and fruits their red, orange and yellow colours. These natural dyes are converted into vitamin A in the body. In this form, beta-carotene reduces oxidation and inflammation processes and can thus protect against various diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases or cancer. But beta-carotene is also essential for brain function, as it can improve communication between brain cells and increase the lifespan of brain cells due to its antioxidant effect. In addition, it controls reactions of the immune system.