Scientists studying the eating habits of different population
groups have found that diets providing adequate levels of
various nutrients such as beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E
and selenium may be more important to maintaining optimal health
than was previously believed. This has led to a number of
ongoing studies using dietary supplements to explore the
possible roles beta carotene and other nutrients may play in
reducing disease risks. Much is expected to be learned as the
results of these studies become available in the next few years.
Essential Roles in the Body For many years, beta carotene was
known mainly for its role as a source of vitamin A and as a food
colorant. In fact, beta carotene is the most common plant source
of vitamin A. It is also responsible for most of the rich
yellow, orange and red pigment found in various fruits and
vegetables. This dual role of beta carotene is well illustrated
by its long use as both a color and vitamin A source in
margarine. In recent years, however, it is be