Carotenoids are a large family of naturally occurring, fat-soluble pigments produced by plants, algae and some microorganisms. They contribute many of the yellow, orange and red colors found in fruits, vegetables, flowers and other botanicals.
In herbal, nutrition and wellness contexts, carotenoids are discussed as bioactive compounds. Some carotenoids can be converted by the body into vitamin A, while others cannot. Carotenoids are not polyphenols, although both groups may occur together in the same plant.
Common Carotenoids
Hundreds of carotenoids occur in nature. Some of the best known include:
- Beta-carotene — found in carrots, sweet potatoes and other orange or dark-green plants
- Lycopene — associated with the red color of tomatoes and other red fruits
- Lutein and zeaxanthin — found in leafy greens, yellow-orange plants and other foods
- Beta-cryptoxanthin — found in various orange and red fruits and vegetables
Beta-carotene, alpha-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin are known as provitamin A carotenoids because the body can convert them into vitamin A. Lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin do not have provitamin A activity.
Evidence & Research
Carotenoids are widely studied for their roles in plants, nutrition and human health. Many demonstrate antioxidant activity in laboratory research, but describing a compound as an “antioxidant” does not by itself establish that consuming more of it will prevent or treat disease.
Different carotenoids behave differently in the body, and research findings involving one carotenoid should not automatically be applied to the entire group.
Safety & Considerations
Carotenoids obtained naturally through foods are generally considered safe. Very high intake of beta-carotene can temporarily give the skin a yellow-orange appearance, which is typically harmless.
High-dose beta-carotene supplements are different from beta-carotene naturally present in foods. Studies have found an increased risk of lung cancer among smokers, former smokers and people exposed to asbestos who took high-dose beta-carotene supplements.
Related Terms
Related concepts include Antioxidant, Bioactive Compound, Flavonoid and Polyphenol. These terms may overlap in herbal or wellness conversations, but they are not interchangeable and each has its own meaning and context.
A Note on Wellness Language
Wellness terms can change over time and may be used differently across scientific, traditional and commercial settings. Our goal is to explain them clearly, distinguish historical meaning from modern marketing, and give enough context for you to make sense of the language you encounter.
A Note on Educational Information
The information in this glossary is provided for educational purposes only. It is intended to explain terminology and provide context, not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease, or replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
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The pigments behind some of nature’s brightest colors. 🥕🌿