TREATMENT DATABASE

Beta-carotene is the precursor to vitamin A. When foods containing beta-carotene (yellow or orange vegetables) are ingested, the liver converts the beta-carotene to vitamin A. However, unlike vitamin A it cannot be stored in the body and therefore entails far fewer risks of toxicity, although its function remains largely the same. Like vitamin A, beta-carotene strengthens mucous membranes. It also helps protect against skin and lung cancer and improves the functioning of the thymus gland (where T cells are produced). There is no recommended daily allowance for beta-carotene, but people who take large amounts often notice that certain areas of their skin, particularly the palms and around the fingernails, turn yellowish orange. This condition is called carotenemia and, while benign, is a sign that too much beta-carotene is being consumed. Patients with diabetes or hypothyroid conditions should avoid taking beta-carotene because they cannot convert it to vitamin A.

USES IN ME/CFS. Beta-carotene is one of the vitamins mentioned by clinicians as having particular value in ME/CFS. Dr. Burke Cunha found that among the majority of his ME/CFS patients who tested low in natural killer cells, beta-carotene resulted in an increase in the number of these cells. He also found less fatigue in these patients. Dr. Cunha postulated that by increasing natural killer cell production, beta-carotene may serve as an effective antiviral agent.

Treatment rating for Beta-Carotene