Beta carotene also is concentrated in other orange fruits and vegetables, such as pumpkin, squash and apricots, as well as dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale. The benefit from cooked spinach is more easily absorbed by your body if you add vinegar to the greens. Vitamin C, vitamin E and beta carotene have been touted for years by experts as the three most important supplements. They're all antioxidants, which help quench or neutralize free-radical chemicals that cause cell damage and lead to numerous chronic diseases like cancer. The supplement's making news again, this time with caveats for smokers.
Nobody disputes that the beta carotene in food is healthful and safe.
People with high blood levels of beta carotene have lower odds of cancer and heart disease and better immune systems. Beta carotene-rich foods also possess dozens of other nutrients and antioxidants that contribute to the health benefits. The discoloration is benign and disappears when you cut back. Smokers should not take megadoses of beta carotene, pending clarification of new findings, experts say. A daily had a 42 percent higher risk of lung cancer after six years.