Beta Carotene Supplement
Against free radical attack
Beta carotene supplement can be taken with vitamin c and e to prevent free radical attack on sperm and together with these essential vitamins, can be termed an infertility vitamin. Beta carotene is a type of pigment found in plants, especially carrots and colorful vegetables. The name beta-carotene is derived from the Latin name for carrot, and it gives yellow and orange fruits and vegetables their rich hues This is also a pro vitamin - it is converted into vitamin a when the body stores are low. Too much vitamin a is poisonous, so ensuring an adequate intake of beta carotene supplements is the safest way to maintain an optimal supply and as a treatment for infertility.
Beta carotene and Sperm benefits
Beta carotene supplements are fat-soluble antioxidants which are likely to protect sperm from free radical attack in a similar method to vitamins a and e, as detailed on benefits of antioxidants. Vitamin a is reported to be important for sperm maturation as they pass through the epididymis (a tightly coiled collecting tube attached to the top of the testis). Vitamin a can bind to sperm at special receptor sites and seems to enter the egg at fertilization. Sperm vitamin a may be important during the early stages of fetal development. Further details on sperm health is available on semen analysis or sperm washing.
Pregnancy
Beta-carotene is also in used in malnourished (underfed) women to reduce the chance of death and night blindness during pregnancy
Daily dosage
Beta-carotene supplements are available in both capsule and gel forms. Beta-carotene is fat-soluble, so you should take it with meals containing at least 3 g of fat to ensure absorption. For general health, 15 - 50 mg (25,000 - 83,000 IU) per day is recommended. Try to get most of this amount in your diet. Eating more fruits and vegetables will ensure you get enough beta-carotene, and will also give you the added benefits of other nutrients and antioxidants as detailed in list of antioxidants.Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Five servings provide about 3 - 6 mg of beta-carotene.
Food sources for beta carotene
| | - fruits with yellow / orange pigmentation - mangos, papaya, apricots, etc
| | | - carrots, peppers, squashes, butternut, pumpkin - yellow and orange vegetables
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Beta-carotene promotes healthy fertility.
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