What Are Some Of The Better Known Carotenoids?
Even though there are over 600 known carotenoids, only a few are mentioned frequently on their own accord. Some of these include: • alpha-carotene: one of the most abundant carotenoids, it can be converted in the body into retinal, an active form of vitamin A • beta-carotene: found in dark green and dark yellow fruits and vegetables, and another known precursor to vitamin A • beta-cryptoxanthin: abundant and able to be converted to vitamin A, this carotenoid is a strong antioxidant • capsanthin: carmine-red carotenoid pigment occurring in paprika, often used as a natural dye in foods. Accounts for 30-60% of total carotenoids in fully ripe fruits. • lutein: yellow pigment that does not readily form vitamin A, but powerful antioxidant, and found in the retina of the eye. • lycopene: found in tomatoes and responsible for their red color, this carotenoids does not readily for vitamin A, but is known to help prevent certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, cataracts, and age-related macular
