BETA-CRYPTOXANTHIN

Beta-cryptoxanthin belongs to the class of carotenoids, more specifically the xanthophylls. In the human body, beta-cryptoxanthin is converted to vitamin A (retinol) and is therefor considered as a pro-vitamin A.

Distribution

The phytochemical beta-cryptoxanthin can be found in many vegetables and fruits, mainly in papaya, mango, peaches, oranges, tangerines, bell peppers, corn and watermelon. Beta-cryptoxanthin is also found in some yellow coloured animal products such as egg yolk and butter.

Health Benefits of Beta-Cryptoxanthin

Beta-cryptoxanthin is a strong antioxidant and prevents that free radicals can damage your cells and DNA.

Beta-cryptoxanthin seems to reduce the risk of lung cancer and colon cancer. Studies have demonstrated that beta-cryptoxanthin can reduce the risk of lung cancer by more than 30 per cent. Researchers believe that the anti-cancer effect is linked to the antioxidant effect of beta-cryptoxanthin, but also to a specific expression of a gene that protects cells from becoming cancerous.

Other studies showed that beta-cryptoxanthin reduces risk for rheumatoid arthritis by 41 per cent.

Beta-cryptoxanthin is a source of vitamin A, but about 2 times less strong than beta-carotene.

Facts about Beta-Cryptoxanthin

Cooking of fruit and vegetables do not break down much the beta-cryptoxanthin. In order to absorb the beta-cryptoxanthin is essential that the diet contains fat, because beta-cryptoxanthin is fat-soluble substances.

Synonyms

Cryptoxanthin, cryptoxanthol, hydroxy-beta-carotene