The Effect of Beta-Carotene on Cognitive Function: A Systematic Review

β-carotene is a powerful antioxidant and dietary precursor of vitamin A whose role in maintaining mental health and cognitive performance, either alone or in combination with other dietary compounds, has been a topic of recent research. However, its effectiveness is still unclear. This systematic re...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Brain sciences 2023-10, Vol.13 (10), p.1468
Main Authors: Abrego-Guandique, Diana Marisol, Bonet, Maria Luisa, Caroleo, Maria Cristina, Cannataro, Roberto, Tucci, Paola, Ribot, Joan, Cione, Erika
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Ascorbic acid
Automation
Beta carotene
Brain research
Carotenoids
Chemotherapy
Cognition & reasoning
Cognitive ability
cognitive function
diet supplements
Dietary intake
Epidemiology
Executive function
Memory
Mental health
MicroRNAs
Nutrition research
Oxidative stress
Selenium
Serum levels
synergic effect
Systematic Review
Vitamin A
Vitamin E
β-Carotene
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Summary:β-carotene is a powerful antioxidant and dietary precursor of vitamin A whose role in maintaining mental health and cognitive performance, either alone or in combination with other dietary compounds, has been a topic of recent research. However, its effectiveness is still unclear. This systematic review, conducted according to the PRISMA guideline and assisted by the MySLR platform, addressed this issue. A total of 16 eligible original research articles were identified. Dietary intake or β-carotene serum levels were associated with improved measures of cognitive function in 7 out of 10 epidemiological studies included. In intervention studies, β-carotene consumption alone did not promote better cognitive function in the short term, but only in a long-term intervention with a mean duration of 18 years. However, all but one intervention study suggested the beneficial effects of β-carotene supplementation at doses ranging from 6 mg to 50 mg per day in combination with a multicomplex such as vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc, or selenium for a period of 16 weeks to 20 years. Despite the current limitations, the available evidence suggests a potential association between β-carotene dietary/supplementary intake and the maintenance of cognitive function. The β-carotene most probably does not act alone but in synergy with other micronutrients.
ISSN:2076-3425
2076-3425
DOI:10.3390/brainsci13101468