Carotenoids

Abstract

Many epidemiologic studies showed the benefit of carotenoid-rich fruits and vegetables on the risk of chronic diseases; however, clinical supplementation trials returned null findings or even evidence of harm in certain populations. Based on these results, carotenoid supplementation is not recommended for the general population, and smokers and consumers of alcohol are warned to avoid high-dose carotenoid supplements. The metabolism and molecular biologic properties of many carotenoids remain to be determined. Carotenoid metabolites may be active in several important cellular signaling pathways and molecular targets, and they could have greater biologic roles than their parent compounds in human health and disease. As we await a better understanding of carotenoid metabolism and mechanisms of action, specifically the interactions between carotenoids and other nutrients as well as individual polymorphism, a prudent strategy to reduce the risk of chronic disease incidence and mortality is to increase consumption of vegetables and fruits as a part of a balanced diet.