Beta Cryptoxanthin

2024 Author: Jasmine Walkman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 08:29

Beta cryptoxanthin is a provitamin A compound, one of approximately 50 carotenoids that can be converted in the body to retinol, the active form of vitamin A. Beta cryptoxanthin has approximately half the vitamin A activity of beta carotene.

Functions of beta cryptoxanthin

Prevention of vitamin A deficiency - foods that contain beta cryptoxanthin help prevent vitamin A deficiency. In addition to alpha-carotene and beta carotene, beta cryptoxanthin is among the most commonly consumed carotenoids in various types of diets.

Antioxidant and boosting immune activity - beta cryptoxanthin helps fight cancer and is a compound used against aging. It is a powerful antioxidant, protecting the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. In addition to its ability to kill free radicals, it also stimulates the expression of the RB gene, an anti-oncogene that protects cells from becoming cancerous. Increased intake of this carotenoid reduces the risk of esophageal and lung cancer.

Enhancement of lung function - studies show that beta cryptoxanthin can promote respiratory health. Serum concentrations of this carotenoid are associated with improved lung function.

Low intake of foods containing carotenoids such as beta cryptoxanthin, is not known to directly cause disease or health complications, at least in the short term. However, if the intake of beta cryptoxanthin and other carotenoids is too low, can cause symptoms associated with vitamin A deficiency. In the long run, this insufficient intake is associated with chronic diseases, including heart disease and various cancers. In turn, high intake of foods and supplements containing carotenoids is not associated with various toxic effects.

Carotenoids such as beta cryptoxanthin are fat-soluble substances and as such require the presence of dietary fats for proper absorption through the digestive tract. Therefore, the status of beta-cryptoxanthin in the body may be impaired by a diet that is extremely low in fat or if there is a disease that causes a decrease in the ability to absorb dietary fats such as pancreatic enzyme deficiency, Crohn's disease, cystic fibrosis, surgical removal of part of the stomach, bile and liver disease.

Smokers and people addicted to alcohol have been found to consume fewer foods that contain carotenoids. Cigarette smoke has also been shown to break down carotenoids. This leads to the need for these people to procure the necessary quantities beta cryptoxanthin and carotenoids through various foods and supplements.

Cholesterol-lowering drugs associated with bile acid isolation lead to lower blood levels of carotenoids. Also, some foods such as margarine enriched with plant sterols and fat substitutes that are added to some snacks can reduce the absorption of carotenoids.

Carotenoids are essential for human health and help prevent the following diseases: AIDS, angina, asthma, cataracts, cervical cancer, cervical dysplasia, heart disease, laryngeal cancer, lung cancer, male and female infertility, osteoarthritis, pneumonia, prostate cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, skin cancer, vaginal candidiasis, etc.

Sources of beta cryptoxanthin

Beta cryptoxanthin found in a number of foods such as red peppers, papaya, St. John's wort, oranges, corn, watermelon, avocado and grapefruit. It is necessary to consume five or more servings of fruits and vegetables every day to get the necessary daily amount of carotenoids.