Delta-Carotene

Delta-Carotene is a form of carotene that is orange in color and is a precursor to vitamin A. It is one of the many isomers of carotene, which also include alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and gamma-carotene. Delta-carotene is found in many fruits and vegetables, particularly those that are orange or yellow in color.

Structure and Properties

Delta-carotene is a hydrocarbon made up of 40 carbon atoms and 56 hydrogen atoms. It has a molecular weight of 536.87 g/mol. The structure of delta-carotene is characterized by a series of conjugated double bonds, which give it its characteristic orange color.

Sources

Delta-carotene is found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, including carrots, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes. It is also found in some types of algae and palm oil.

Health Benefits

Like other forms of carotene, delta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant. It can help to protect the body against damage from free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can cause cell damage and contribute to the development of chronic diseases.

Delta-carotene is also a precursor to vitamin A, which is essential for good vision, a healthy immune system, and cell growth. However, the body's ability to convert delta-carotene into vitamin A is less efficient than its ability to convert beta-carotene.

Safety and Side Effects

While delta-carotene is generally considered safe, consuming large amounts can lead to a condition called carotenemia, which causes the skin to turn yellow-orange. This condition is harmless and can be reversed by reducing intake of carotene-rich foods.

See Also

• Carotene
• Vitamin A
• Antioxidants
• Carotenemia