Beta-carotene and human health: A review of current research

Beta-carotene research has progressed rapidly in the past few years. New techniques have allowed accurate measurements of beta-carotene concentrations in plasma, tissues, and diet. New animal models, stable isotope techniques, and human depletion and repletion experiments are leading an explosion in the information about beta-carotene utilization in humans. These advances are leading to a better understanding of the possibilities and limitations of the influence of beta-carotene on human health. This review summarizes important new developments in beta-carotene research, and provides an interpretation of how these results reflect the impact of beta-carotene and human health. 1997 Elsevier Science Inc.