You Are Lacking Beta-Carotene, Now What?

We know that vitamins are critical to our overall health. We also know that there are a lot of different vitamins to keep track of. Beta-carotene is a vitamin that we generally do not discuss often enough. We need this vitamin, which is converted to vitamin A in our bodes, for our skin and eyes to be healthy. I am sure you remember your mom telling you to eat your carrots to keep your eyes healthy? This is exactly why.

What Happens if I Do Not Get Enough Beta-Carotene?

Night blindness is one of the first issues to be concerned about. Remember that beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A. Now, if we do not have enough vitamin A in our bodies - while it is a rare possibility - night blindness can occur. Other possible issues include eye infections, slowed growth, dry eyes and skin problems.

There are also some health conditions that may cause you to need to take in more beta-carotene. Such health conditions include continuing diarrhea, serious injury, problems with malabsorption, cystic fibrosis, long-term illness, liver disease and pancreas disease.

Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine if you should personally be taking in more beta-carotene.

Precautions with Beta-Carotene

If it is determined that you need to take a beta-carotene supplement, you should treat it like you would any other medication. This means that there are precautions to keep in mine. If your doctor recommends a supplement, be sure to tell him or her if you have eating disorders, liver disease or kidney disease.

You should also tell your doctor if you smoke. There is an association between an increased risk of lung cancer and beta-carotene. The same association has been found in those with asbestos exposure, so be sure to tell your doctor if you have had exposure.

Does Beta-Carotene Have Side Effects?

If you are supplementing, there are possible side effects. Some of the more common side effects may include yellowing of your hands, palms and soles of feet. Some people also report that their face becomes yellowed. If your face becomes yellowed, tell your doctor. Also report yellowing that does not go away.

Some of the rare side effects that should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately include diarrhea, joint pain, dizziness and unusual bruising and bleeding. If you experience any side effects outside of the ones listed here, contact your healthcare provider right away and ask about them.