Evidence supporting the use of: Beta-carotene
For the health condition: Macular Degeneration
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4
Beta-carotene has scientific support for its use in reducing the risk of progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), especially as established by the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). This landmark randomized controlled trial found that a specific formulation of antioxidants—including beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and copper—reduced the risk of progression to advanced AMD by about 25% in individuals with intermediate or advanced AMD in one eye. Beta-carotene, as a precursor to vitamin A, is thought to support retinal health through its antioxidant properties, neutralizing free radicals that can damage retinal cells.
However, it is crucial to note that subsequent research, including the AREDS2 trial, found that substituting beta-carotene with the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin provided similar protective effects but without the increased lung cancer risk seen in smokers taking beta-carotene supplements. Thus, while the original AREDS formula (which included beta-carotene) had demonstrated benefit, current clinical guidelines recommend formulations without beta-carotene, especially for those with a history of smoking, due to its associated risks. Overall, the use of beta-carotene for AMD is grounded in scientific evidence, but its role has evolved with new findings, and alternative carotenoids are often preferred in modern practice.
Other ingredients used for Macular Degeneration
algal oilalpha-carotene
anchovies
anthocyanins
astaxanthin
beta-carotene
blueberry
cryptoxanthin
turmeric
d-alpha tocopherol
DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
fish oil
l-5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine salt (5-MTHF)
lutein
marine lipid
mixed carotenoids
omega-3 fatty acids
vitamin A
vitamin C
vitamin E
zeaxanthin
zinc
algae
3,3'-dihydroxy-B-carotene-4,4'-dione
Avocado
anthocyanidins
Bioflavonoids
Cyanidin
Docosahexaenoic Acid
Eicosapentaenoic Acid
Flavanols
Other health conditions supported by beta-carotene
Aging (prevention)Cancer (prevention)
Cataracts
Cervical Dysplasia
Eye Problems
Eyesight (poor)
Free Radical Damage
Macular Degeneration
Night Blindness
Skin Care (general)
Sunburn
Wrinkles
Products containing beta-carotene
Metagenics
EstroFactors®
Metagenics
Herbulk® Powder Natural Orange
Metagenics
MetaKids Nutrition Powder Chocolate
Metagenics
MetaKids Nutrition Powder Vanilla
Thorne
Multi-Vitamin Elite NSF
Thorne
Multi-Vitamin Elite NSF
Metagenics
Multigenics®
Metagenics
Multigenics Chewable Orange
Metagenics
Multigenics Intensive Care
Metagenics
Multigenics Intensive Care without Iron
Metagenics
Multigenics without Iron
Metagenics
OmegaGenics Algae EPA-DHA 300 mg