Once a phytonutrient like ascorbic acid was isolated and proven to be the essential compound, it was given a vitamin name. So, some phytonutrients are vitamins. That's why nutritionists recommend food, especially, fruit, vegetables and whole grains, rather than supplements, for those seeking the benefits of phytonutrients. Finally, it's also true that some vitamins are not phytonutrients because they are derived from animal sources, not plants. Non-phytonutrient vitamins include vitamins A, D and B12.
Beta carotene is a special type of nutrient called a provitamin.
Our bodies can convert beta carotene and other plant pigments called carotenoids into vitamin A, which makes this phytonutrient important for maintaining healthy vitamin A levels. Copyright 1999 Baylor College of Medicine. All Rights Reserved.