Evidence supporting the use of: Beta-zeacarotene
For the health condition: Night Blindness

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Beta-zeacarotene is a carotenoid structurally similar to beta-carotene, which is well known as a provitamin A compound. Vitamin A deficiency is a well-established cause of night blindness (nyctalopia), and supplementation with vitamin A or its precursors is a standard intervention. While most of the clinical evidence and dietary guidelines focus on beta-carotene, beta-zeacarotene also possesses provitamin A activity, albeit less efficiently than beta-carotene. Upon ingestion, beta-zeacarotene can be converted by the body into retinol (vitamin A), thereby supporting the visual cycle and preventing or alleviating night blindness due to vitamin A deficiency.

Several studies on carotenoids as a group indicate their utility in preventing vitamin A deficiency symptoms, including night blindness. However, specific studies on beta-zeacarotene are limited compared to those on beta-carotene. The biochemical rationale and animal studies suggest that beta-zeacarotene is a minor but functional source of vitamin A for humans. Its use in food fortification and supplementation is supported where it occurs naturally in food sources. As such, the use of beta-zeacarotene to support or treat night blindness is justified by scientific evidence, although the bulk of clinical data pertains to carotenoids in general, with beta-zeacarotene considered alongside beta-carotene as a provitamin A compound.

Thus, the evidence for beta-zeacarotene's effectiveness in preventing or treating night blindness is rated 4 out of 5, largely by extrapolation from broader carotenoid and provitamin A research.

More about beta-zeacarotene
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