Vitamins - - VYE-ta-mins are compounds that you must have for growth and health. They are needed in small amounts only and are usually available in the foods that you eat. Beta-carotene - bay-ta-KARE-oh-teen is converted in the body to vitamin A, which is necessary for healthy eyes and skin.
A lack of vitamin A may cause a rare condition called night blindness - problems seeing in the dark. It may also cause dry eyes, eye infections, skin problems and slowed growth. Your health care professional may treat these problems by prescribing either beta-carotene, which your body can change into vitamin A, or vitamin A for you.
Some conditions may increase your need for vitamin A. These include:
Increased need for vitamin A must be determined by your health care professional.
Claims that beta-carotene is effective as a sunscreen have not been proven. Although beta-carotene supplements are being studied for their ability to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer and possibly heart disease, there is not enough information to show that this is effective.
Beta-carotene may be using to treat other conditions as determined by your family doctor.
Beta-carotene is available without a prescription in the following dosage forms:
It is documented that people who consume diets high in fruits and vegetables have a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Fruits and vegetables are rich in beta-carotene and other nutrients that may be beneficial.
Beta-carotene is found in carrots; dark-green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and green leaf lettuce; sweet potatoes; broccoli; cantaloupe; and winter squash. The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A. Ordinary cooking does not destroy beta-carotene.
Vitamins alone will not take the place of a good diet and will not provide energy. Your body needs other substances found in food, such as protein, minerals, carbohydrates and fat. Vitamins themselves often can't work without the presence of other foods. For example, some fat is needed so that beta-carotene can be absorbed into the body.
Some commonly using brand names are:
In the USA
Generic name product may be available in the USA and Canada.