Dietary carotenoids and their role in combating vitamin A deficiency: a review of the literature.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the evidence that carotene-rich fruits and vegetables can overcome vitamin A deficiency.

DESIGN:

Results of studies on the relationship between dietary carotenoids and vitamin A deficiency were evaluated critically.

RESULTS:

Increased intake of fruits and vegetables has been shown to be related to improved vitamin A status in many cross-sectional, case-control and community-based studies, but this does not prove causality of the relationship. Many experimental studies indicating a positive effect of fruits and vegetables can be criticized for their poor experimental design while recent experimental studies have found no effect of vegetables on vitamin A status. Thus, it is too early to draw firm conclusions about the role of carotene-rich fruits and vegetables in overcoming vitamin A deficiency. Bioavailability of dietary carotenoids and their conversion to retinol are influenced by the following factors: Species of carotene; molecular Linkage; Amount of carotene in a meal; Matrix in which the carotenoid is incorporated; Absorption modifiers; Nutrient status of the host; Genetic factors; Host-related factors and Interactions (SLAMANGHI). Studies are required to quantify the impact of these factors, especially of the matrix, host-related factors and absorption modifiers.

CONCLUSIONS:

The effectiveness of carotene-rich foods in improving vitamin A status and ways of improving carotene bioavailability need further investigation.

• Authors: S de Pee, C E West
• Journal: European journal of clinical nutrition (Eur J Clin Nutr) Vol. 50 Suppl 3 Pg. S38-53 (Jul 1996) ISSN: 0954-3007 [Print] England
• PMID: 8841773 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Carotenoids

Topics

• Biological Availability
• Carotenoids (administration & dosage, physiology, therapeutic use)
• Diet
• Fruit
• Humans
• Indonesia
• Vegetables
• Vitamin A Deficiency (drug therapy, prevention & control)