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It will prolong the summer tan, give the skin a healthy, youthful appearance, is an excellent antioxidant, and even supports the functioning of the eyesight and heart. Beta-carotene is not only an ingredient of many cosmetics and a tanning aid, but also an ally of many other functions of our body.
It owes its fame mainly to the fact that it prolongs the tan and supports the tanning process. How does it happend? Part of the pigment contained in beta-carotene is deposited in the skin, which is why it prolongs the holiday, sun-kissed look. Moreover, it is an ally of safer tanning, as it is a natural filter. One of its functions is protection against UV radiation, thanks to which it reduces the risk of burns and discoloration. Nevertheless, beta-carotene must not be used as a substitute for sunscreens – in combination, they will protect the body much better, but it is still important to follow the rules of safe tanning.
What is beta-carotene and where can you find it?
It is a compound belonging to the group of carotenoids, i.e. yellow, orange and red pigments present in plants. It is a provitamin of vitamin A, which is a compound that supports the production of retinol in the body (a form of vitamin A that is ready to be absorbed by the body).
To prolong and improve the effects of tanning, it is recommended to drink freshly squeezed carrot juice two to three times a week. However, keep in mind that using beta-carotene in excessive amounts over a long period of time may result in yellowing of the skin. Therefore, it is better not to overdo it with carrot juice!
Other sources of beta-carotene include yellow, red and orange vegetables and fruits:
- Peaches,
- Peppers,
- Oranges,
- Tomatoes,
- Pumpkin,
- moral,
And also in green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, lettuce, green beans.
Not only for a tan. Other properties of beta-carotene
It lowers the level of bad cholesterol, thus supporting our heart. It prevents the deposition of deposits, so it reduces the risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack and stroke. According to research, one carrot a day reduces the risk of stroke by up to 70% and heart attack by 30%.
All carotenoids are also excellent antioxidants that can prevent the development of cancer, mainly of the esophagus, larynx, mouth, and bladder. Unfortunately, people who smoke cigarettes eat beta-carotene slightly increases the risk of lung cancer. Therefore, people addicted to nicotine cannot consume too much of this ingredient and use beta-carotene supplementation. Pregnant women should not take too much, as it can harm the baby.
Presence beta-carotene as an antioxidant, it also inhibits the aging process of the skin, and also supports the treatment of acne skin, inhibits seborrhea of hair and skin. It also ensures the proper functioning of the eyes, reducing the risk of macular degeneration, cataracts, dry eye syndrome, lens damage.