Definition: A carotenoid found in colorful fruits and vegetables.
Beta-carotene, along with alpha-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin, are precursors of vitamin A; your body converts them to a form of vitamin A called retinol.
While all three carotenoids can be converted, your body is most efficient converting beta-carotene to vitamin A (here are the symptoms of vitamin A deficiency).
There is some evidence that beta-carotene may also work as an antioxidant to prevent cellular damage from free radicals, and is sold as a dietary supplement.
