Tag: Beta carotene risks

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), large amounts of antioxidants, especially in supplement form, may not always be beneficial and can interfere with important cellular functions. While a diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential antioxidants, it is possible to take too much antioxidants, particularly through supplements, leading to unintended and potentially harmful effects.

While excess preformed vitamin A can be toxic, the body's conversion of beta-carotene is self-regulating, meaning the primary risk of overconsumption from food is temporary and harmless. However, what happens if I take too much beta-carotene, particularly in supplement form, is a more serious concern, especially for certain populations.

While a diet rich in beta-carotene is beneficial, decades of research have shown that high-dose beta-carotene supplementation can be dangerous for certain individuals. Understanding who cannot take beta-carotene is crucial for avoiding potential health complications associated with these specific supplements.