The functions of carotenoids on the human body are mainly manifested through vitamin A, such as being responsible for dim light vision and light/dark shift vision, maintaining the integrity of the skin mucous membranes, improving immune function by regulating cellular and humoral immunity, and participating in the development of spermatozoa and embryos. In addition, vitamin A is associated with bone formation.

It should be noted that excessive intake of carotenoids from vegetables and fruits can lead to carotenoidosis, which is characterized by a yellowing of the skin, but is not harmful to health, and the yellow coloring will gradually fade after stopping the intake of carotenoid-rich foods. However, consuming large amounts of carotenoid supplements is harmful, mainly from their pro-oxidant effect, which promotes cell division and destroys antioxidants and vitamin A in the body.

Expanded Information

Carotenoids are mainly found in dark green or reddish-yellow vegetables and fruits, such as: carrots, broccoli, spinach, cabbage, sweet potatoes, mangoes, fruits and vegetables. , sweet potatoes, mangoes, cantaloupe, apricots and melons, etc. By and large, the more intensely colored the fruit or vegetable, the richer it is in beta-carotene.

Dark-colored vegetables can be blanched or stewed. Since dark vegetables contain very few calories and proteins, it is best to combine them with meat, fish and eggs when cooking or eating them, and to eat them with cereals such as rice and bread.

People's Daily News - Carotenoids are a big family