The two main forms of vitamin A in the human diet are preformed vitamin A (retinol, retinyl esters), and provitamin A carotenoids such as beta-carotene that are converted to retinol. Preformed vitamin A comes from animal products, fortified foods, and vitamin supplements. Carotenoids are found naturally in plant foods.
Is beta-carotene and vitamin A the same?
Beta-carotene (β-carotene) is a precursor to vitamin A, an essential vitamin at any age, including for cellular health and vision. It is also a powerful antioxidant that may reduce the risk of cancer. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A. It turns into vitamin A according to the body's needs.
Is β-carotene vitamin A?
Eye Health Beta carotene is a provitamin A carotenoid, or a nutrient that the body readily converts into vitamin A. Research has found that eating a carotenoid-rich diet, including beta carotene, supports eye health and prevents eye diseases.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
What are the health benefits of white potatoes?Can I take vitamin A and beta-carotene together?