Beta-Carotene (Systemic)
Brand Names : Lumitene, Max-Caro
Precautions While Using This Dietary SupplementUse of beta-carotene has been associated with an increased risk of lung
cancer in people who smoke or who have been exposed to asbestos. One study
of 29,000 male smokers found an 18% increase in lung cancer in the group receiving
20 mg of beta-carotene a day for 5 to 8 years. Another study of 18,000 people
found 28% more lung cancers in people with a history of smoking and/or asbestos
exposure. These people took 30 mg of beta-carotene in addition to 25,000 Units
of retinol (a form of vitamin A) a day for 4 years. However, one study of
22,000 male physicians, some of them smokers or former smokers, found no increase
in lung cancer. These people took 50 mg of beta-carotene every other day for
12 years. If you smoke or have a history of smoking or asbestos exposure,
you should not take large amounts of beta-carotene supplements for long periods
of time. However, foods that are rich in beta-carotene are considered safe
and appear to lower the risk of some types of cancer and possibly heart disease.
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