What are carotenoids?
Carotenoids are naturally-occurring pigments largely responsible for the beautiful yellow, orange and red colour of fruits, vegetables and other plants. It is estimated that there are more than 600 varieties of carotenoids. Carotenoids are also found in animals, being partially responsible for the colour of birds, fishes, insects, crustaceans and some invertebrates. Fruits and vegetables contain a large number of carotenoids, but only a small number of carotenoids are found in appreciable quantities in human blood and tissues. The best-known carotenoid is probably beta carotene, a powerful antioxidant that can be converted to vitamin A in the body when needed. Other major ones are alpha carotene and lutein. Lutein maintains the integrity of the macular region of the eye.
A wider spectrum of Carotenoids:
Beta Carotene (4.5mg) = 51gr cooked sweet potatoes or 82gr cooked spinach.
Alpha Carotene (1.07mg)= 28gr fresh pumpkin or 29gr raw carrots.
Lutein (1.12mg)= 68gr green peas or 148gr corn.
Benefits of Multicaotene:
- Able to neutralise free radicals and helpt to protect cells from oxidation
- Lutein supports better vision
- Supplies the body with vitamin A when needed and functions as an antixodant
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