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VitaminsWeak evidence

Beta-carotene

Also known as: provitamin A

Beta-carotene is an orange plant pigment that the body converts to vitamin A as needed. Unlike retinol it does not cause vitamin A toxicity, but in smokers high-dose supplements increased lung cancer risk.

What it is used for

  • Source of vitamin A for vision, skin and immunity – strong evidence for the role of vitamin A
  • Skin protection from sun with long-term use – weak evidence, does not replace sunscreen
  • Prevention of chronic disease – no evidence, and a risk in smokers

Forms and how they differ

synthetic beta-carotene

standard form

natural beta-carotene (from Dunaliella algae or carrots)

also contains other carotenoids; advantages are not clearly shown

When to take it

With a meal containing fat.

Pairs well with

Vitamin E, other carotenoids from food.

Do not combine / separate

Do not combine with other beta-carotene or vitamin A products without adding up the dose.

Watch out for

Smokers and people exposed to asbestos should not take beta-carotene supplements. Take care with liver disease; in pregnancy and if you take medicines, consult your doctor.

Safety

EFSA advises against beta-carotene supplements for smokers; for others do not exceed the label dose. Orange-tinted skin is a harmless sign of excess.

Practical tip

Carrots, pumpkin or sweet potatoes with a little oil are a cheaper and safer source than a capsule.

Products containing Beta-carotene 5

Beta-carotene beta-carotene (provitamin A) 4.8 mgbeta-carotene (provitamin A) · 4.8 mg / capsuleEyesSkinAntioxidant
Beta-carotene natural 7500 µgnatural · 7 500 µg / capsuleEyesSkinAntioxidant
Beta-carotene 10000 IUbeta-carotene · 10 000 IU / capsuleEyesSkinAntioxidant
Beta-carotene 25000 IUnatural (Dunaliella) · 25 000 IU / capsuleEyesSkinAntioxidant
Beta-carotenemixedEyesSkinAntioxidant
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence

Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.

Combination check

Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.

Check Beta-carotene with others

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Important notice

This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.