1. Health

Discuss in my forum

Carotenoids - What Are Carotenoids

By , About.com Guide

Updated March 11, 2011

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition:

Carotenoids are a group of several hundred substances (plant pigments) found in yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, and in dark green, leafy vegetables.

Dietary (but not supplemental) carotenoids may reduce the risk of lung cancer.

A few of the better known carotenoids include beta carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein, lycopene, and zeaxanthin.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.

We comply with the HONcode standard
for trustworthy health
information: verify here.