What is Cryptoxanthin?

Cryptoxanthin, also known as Xanthophyl or Beta-Cryptoxanthin, is provitamin, which is found in several foods including red peppers, coriander, oranges, corn, avocado and grapefruit. In the body it is converted into retinol, which is an active form of vitamin A. Its properties against aging have been the subject of several studies and promising new research suggests that it can reduce the risk of some forms of cancer. In addition, the compound is considered to be a vital molecule for a healthy lung function.

classified as carotenoid, cryptoxanthin is a naturally occurring pigment that is responsible for the bright color of many fruits. It is generally considered to be one of 50 known carotenoids that can treat vitamin A shortage. Cryptoxanthin usually has half of vitamin and activities of other similarly classified compounds, including beta-carotene and alpha-carotene. Individuals who are on diet withLow fat content, they tend to reduce carotenoid intake. Some health conditions may also prevent carotenoid absorption, including lack of pancreatic enzyme and Crohn's disease.

carotenoids such as cryptoxanthin are strong antioxidants that protect cells from damaging the effects of free radicals. Antioxidants usually reduce signs of aging including wrinkles and age spots. Lack of antioxidants usually increases the risk of tissue damage over time and may leave a person exposed to a higher risk of heart disease. In addition, the antioxidant properties of carotenoids may be associated with reduced tumor growth in some cancer types.

Some of the most promising laboratory experiments have shown that cryptoxanthin generally reduces the risk of cancer in esophagus and lungs. Other studies have shown that patients with colon cancer have reduced carotenoid levels in their system. To may indicate that carotenoid is essential for colon health. Increasing the level of this particular carotenoid in laboratory animals has shown that it increases resistance to colon cancer.

Many research focuses on the ability of cryptoxanthin to interact with the RB gene in cells. This gene is an anti-core or anti-concogen that prevents cells from submitting changes that would lead to uncontrolled division of cells or growth. By activating the gene, the cell usually is subject to normal cell proliferation and does not become cancer.

Another advantage of cryptoxanthin is its potential effects on pulmonary tissue in individuals who smoke. The level of carotenoid in smokers is dramatically smaller than those who do not smoke. Also, individuals with a higher concentration of carotenoid in the blood generally increased the function of the lungs.