Beta carotene is a carotenoid, a substance which occurs naturally in plants. It is a powerful antioxidant. Solar radiation sends free radicals ranging through plants, animals, and humans, bouncing from cell to cell, damaging each in turn. Carotenoids, such as beta carotene, are free radical scavengers. It is thought that carotenoids protect plants from the damage which can be caused by solar radiation.
Beta carotene is found in dark green, yellow, and orange vegetables and fruits.
These free radical scavengers of the plant kingdom continue their work even after being eaten. In addition, the body converts some carotene into vitamin A, another potent antioxidant. Studies are finding that a diet which is high in beta carotene helps to protect the body from cataracts and cancers caused by free radical damage. Their Value Grandmother's old iron skillet did more than cook dinner. It added a dash of iron to grandfather's diet.