Is Carotene Vegan?
Is Carotene Vegan?
Carotene is a pigment found in plants, typically imparting yellow, orange, or red hues. This pigment is abundant in colorful vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and red peppers. The most common form of carotene is beta-carotene.
Beta-carotene is a provitamin A that can be metabolized into vitamin A by the body. When ingested, it converts into vitamin A in the liver. Vitamin A plays numerous vital roles in functions such as eye health, immune system function, skin health, and cell growth.
Carotenoids possess antioxidant properties, meaning they help protect cells by combating harmful free radicals in the body. Therefore, consuming foods rich in carotene can assist in reducing the risk of various chronic diseases such as cancer, heart diseases, and aging.
So, is Carotene Vegan?
Yes, carotene is a vegan component since it naturally occurs in plants.