Beta carotene overdose can cause orange or yellow skin discoloration, diarrhea, bruising, and dizziness. It can be easily treated by discontinuing use or reducing dosage. Long-term use and smoking can increase the risk of side effects. Whole foods are recommended as a safer source of beta carotene. Alcohol and fat replacement products can hinder its effectiveness. Beta carotene is found in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits and is used to treat various conditions.
The most common effect of a beta carotene overdose is orange or yellow discoloration of the skin. This discoloration is typically most concentrated in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, although it has also been known to develop on the face. Diarrhea, unusual bruising or bleeding, and dizziness are other reported effects of a beta carotene overdose.
In general, a beta carotene overdose is not considered serious if it is addressed promptly. The effects are usually easily treated. In most cases, an overdose can be treated by discontinuing use of the supplement. It may also be possible to treat side effects by reducing the dosage.
To avoid overdosing on beta carotene, it is recommended that you only use the supplement temporarily to treat specific conditions. General use over long periods of time can place an individual at a higher risk of side effects. Regular or past use of cigarettes and excessive consumption of multivitamins can increase the risk of adverse reactions. Past exposure to asbestos can also make taking the supplement problematic.
There are some medications and supplements that can lose their effectiveness when taken with beta carotene supplements. Cholesterol-lowering medications may be less effective when taken in combination with the supplement and vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium. This includes all drugs in the class known as statins. Taking this combination of vitamins with niacin can also reduce its effectiveness.
Several organizations, such as the World Cancer Research Institute, the World Health Organization and the American Cancer Society, recommend getting beta-carotene from whole, fresh foods. This is mainly because there has been little evidence to support the safety of getting this or any other antioxidant from supplements. Historically it has not been determined that there is a condition that would require a beta-carotene supplement.
There are also some substances that hinder the effectiveness of beta carotene supplements. Excessive alcohol consumption can lower the level of the substance in the body. It can also increase the amount of retinol, which is thought to have a connection with a higher risk of cancer. Fat replacement products can also reduce the effectiveness of beta carotene supplements.
Beta carotene is one of many pigments that provide a significant amount of vitamin A. Some of the foods it can be found in include whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. In food or as a supplement, it is used to treat the symptoms of a wide range of conditions including asthma, epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease.
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