The carotenes are a group of phytonutrients (non-essential, plant based nutrients that have a number of health benefits in humans). There are 3 main carotenes which are: - Beta Carotene. - Lycopene. - Phytofluene. The carotenes are mainly found in orange and red fruits and vegetables. Carrots, grapefruits, oranges and tomatoes are some of the best sources. Although these plant based nutrients are not believed to be essential in humans, studies have shown that they have a number of promising health benefits. In this article I will be taking a deeper look at these and providing you with 16 … [Read more...]
The Carotenes Explained
The carotenes are a group of phytonutrients (plant based chemical compounds that have numerous health benefits in the human body but are not classed as essential nutrients) that are mainly found in orange and red fruits and vegetables such as carrots, grapefruits and tomatoes. Although they are not believed to be essential for human survival, they are all potent antioxidants that can keep your body’s cells safe from free radicals (harmful by-products that get released into your body’s cells during oxygen related reactions). Additionally, many of the carotenes are converted into vitamin A … [Read more...]
Beta Carotene Explained
WHAT IS BETA CAROTENE? Beta carotene is a bright orange carotenoid and phytonutrient (health boosting, plant based chemical compounds which are not classed as essential nutrients). It can be found in various vegetables and is used by your body to create vitamin A. In this article I will be taking a deeper look at beta carotene and how it affects the human body. WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF BETA CAROTENE? Beta carotene was discovered and isolated by the German chemist Heinrich Wilhelm Ferdinand Wackenroder in 1831. However, the relationship between beta carotene and vitamin A was not … [Read more...]