From the Research
Carotenemia does not significantly affect vitamin A levels in the body. Carotenemia is a condition where excessive consumption of carotene-rich foods leads to orange-yellow discoloration of the skin, but it does not result in vitamin A toxicity. This is because the conversion of carotenoids (like beta-carotene) to vitamin A is regulated by the body, and this conversion slows down when vitamin A levels are adequate, as noted in a study published in 2024 1. The body only converts as much carotene to vitamin A as needed, storing excess carotenoids in fatty tissues and the skin.
Key Points
- Carotenemia is a benign condition that typically resolves when carotene intake is reduced.
- The conversion of carotenoids to vitamin A is regulated by the body, preventing vitamin A toxicity.
- Excess carotenoids are stored in fatty tissues and the skin, leading to the characteristic orange-yellow discoloration.
- Carotenemia is generally considered harmless from a metabolic standpoint and requires no medical treatment beyond dietary adjustment, as supported by a study published in 2018 2.
Relevant Studies
- A study published in 2024 found that β-carotene is an important vitamin A source for humans, but its conversion to vitamin A is regulated by the body 1.
- Another study published in 2010 noted that provitamin A carotenoid bioavailability is affected by several factors, including species of carotenoids, host status, and effectors of absorption 3.
- A review published in 2010 highlighted the importance of β-carotene as a safe source of vitamin A and its role in fulfilling the recommended intake for vitamin A 4.