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| beta-carotene |
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What is it? |
| A PROVITAMIN and pigment in rose-yellow fruits and vegetables and a precursor of VITAMIN A. Beta-carotene not only occurs widely in nature (it's the orange of carrots, yams, winter squash, papayas, mangoes, etc.) but is also used by food processors. Increasing beta-carotene in the diet is now believed to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer and, perhaps, heart disease as well by minimizing arterial damage. However, heavy drinkers should know that alcohol makes beta-carotene toxic to the liver. GENERALLY RECOGNIZED AS SAFE. See also CAROTENE. |
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