VITAMIN A (BETACAROTENE) AS A SUPPLEMENT PREVENTING CANCER
Breast Cancer
Breast tissue may be particularly sensitive to the actions of vitamin A. Studies have been conducted where researchers compared the concentrations of various forms of vitamin A in the breast tissue of cancer patients, and patients with benign breast lumps. It was found that there was an increased risk of disease in those with low levels of vitamin A.
Cervical Cancer
Studies suggest that low carotenoid levels, including beta carotene may increase the risk of cervical cancer. Laboratory studies have shown that beta carotene can slow the growth of cervical cancer cells
Colon Cancer
Studies have been conducted that show many patients with colon cancer have significantly lower carotenoid levels.
Leukoplakia
Vitamin A has also been shown to exert protective effects against leukoplakia, a precancerous change in mucous membranes. It often occurs in the mouth and throat and is related to smoking.
Lung Cancer
People suffering from lung cancer can have low levels of vitamin A in their blood. Vitamin A preserves the integrity of red blood cell membranes and skin. Lung cancer due to inhalation of benzo-alpha-pyrene is reduced by vitamin A.
Studies have been done that confirm a high dietary intake of fruit and vegetables and beta carotene supplementation is linked to a decreased risk of lung cancer in both men and women.
Prostate Cancer
High beta carotene intakes may also improve survival in those with prostate cancer, according to some studies.
Good food sources of vitamin A and beta carotene include fish oil, white fish and eggs; green, orange and yellow vegetables such as carrots, kale, broccoli, yams, pumpkin, winter squash, sweet potatoes, apricots, mangos and rockmelon.
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