Beta carotene is a member of the carotenoids which is what you get the bright colors from in many fruits in vegetables such as the redness in tomatoes, and can be found in many other fruits, grains, vegetables and oils such as green peppers, spinach, squash and so forth. Beta carotene is important because it possesses many antioxidant properties that help to keep us in good health.

Although technically not an essential nutrient, it does contain vitamins that are such as Vitamin A. Vitamin A in particular serves many functions within our body such as promotion of good bone development, help with the reproductive system and even is involved in the synthesis of certain proteins. But more importantly, beta carotene contains several other vitamins and nutrients that when working together helps prevent against heart disease and cancer. It has been shown to slow the progression of cataracts, prevents macular degeneration, protects the skin against sunburn and helps to boost your overall immunity. Beta carotene has also been used as a natural treatment for asthma, depression, infertility, arthritis, and high blood pressure.

Since beta carotene is found in so many foods that we eat on a daily basis, most people are not lacking in it, but it can be extremely useful as a supplement if treating any of the aforementioned ailments. Be careful though of taking it in extremely high doses as it is known to have a few side effects including diarrhea and giving the skin a slight pigmentation which will go away when you lower your dosage.