Cryptoxanthin
What is Cryptoxanthin?
Cryptoxanthin is a yellow-orange plant pigment, or carotenoid, a group which includes beta-carotene, lutein and lycopene. It functions as an antioxidant to help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, and it also has UV filtering properties. Cryptoxanthin is found in orange fruits such as oranges, oranges, papaya, mangoes, peaches, apricots, and melons. It is also found in some algae, mushrooms, and some cold-water fish, such as salmon and trout.
Where is Cryptoxanthin generally used?
Cryptoxanthin is used to add color and flavor to a range of food products, such as soft drinks, ice creams, and yogurts. It is also used as a coloring agent in cosmetics and pharmaceutical products.
Where is Cryptoxanthin found?
Cryptoxanthin is found in a range of fresh fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, papaya, mangoes, peaches, apricots, and melons. It is also found in some algae, mushrooms, and even some cold-water fish, such as salmon and trout.
What are the health benefits of Cryptoxanthin?
Cryptoxanthin can provide a range of health benefits, including:
- Improving vision health
- Supporting healthy skin
- Helping to reduce inflammation
- Supporting the immune system
- Improving cardiovascular health
- Reducing the risk of certain types of cancer
Interesting Facts about Cryptoxanthin
Cryptoxanthin was discovered by the German scientific team of Zincke and Mertens in the early 1900s. When exposed to light, the carotenoid breaks down and loses its orange-red color, becoming a yellow-green pigment.
List of other similar ingredients
Other carotenoids similar to Cryptoxanthin include:
- Alpha-carotene
- Beta-carotene
- Lycopene
- Lutein
- Zeaxanthin
- Astaxanthin