do leafy greens contain carotenoids
Before I tell you about the many benefits of carotenoids, it is helpful to know what they are and where they come from. Carotenoids are the phytochemicals that make plants colorful and are responsible for the burst of color in fall foliage. They shield plants from sun-induced free radical damage. Considering plants spend their entire lives in the sun, these carotenoids, along with other antioxidants, provide powerful protection. Brightly colored fruits and vegetables such as squash, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, and tomatoes contain carotenoids. And just as carotenoids protect plants, they protect you. The most abundant carotenoids in human tissues are alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene. The first three can be converted in the body to vitamin A, and the entire carotenoid family provides multiple benefits for overall health.