Beta-carotene can be converted into Vitamin A by the body.

In contrast to Vitamin A, beta-carotene carries no risk when ingested in higher than normal amounts. Like Vitamin A, beta-carotene helps diminish the risk of heart disease and cancer. In addition to its traditional role in the diet, beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant.

It is especially effective in neutralizing or quenching free radicals occurring in the form of singlet oxygen, and in the form of polyunsaturated fatty-acid radicals. Because beta-carotene is effective in areas of low oxygen concentrations (e.g.in the capillaries), and is relatively unaffected by contacts with cancer causing substances, this makes beta-carotene a super-strong warrior in the battle against free radicals.

Since most people do not get adequate amounts of beta-carotene in their diets, and since beta-carotene is very safe even when ingested in high amounts, supplements of beta-carotene are highly recommended except for cigarette smokers (ATBC and CARET studies).