Phytochemicals: Functions Of Carotenoids

Phytochemicals Name Institutional Affiliation Carotenoids Carotenoids refer to a class of phytochemicals found in the cells of plants, algae, fungi, and bacteria. The class consists of about one thousand one hundred known naturally occurring pigments such as a-Carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, β-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene among other carotenoids. There are two groups of carotenoids pigments namely xanthophylls containing oxygen and carotenes which are pure carbons (Lisa, Kristina, Genevieve, Xuguang, Liwei, Tram, Meredith, Edward, Karen, Laura, James, Eliseo & Anthony, 2008, pp.373). These pigments are essential in making plants healthy and providing numerous health benefits to people who ingest them. Functions of carotenoids According to Oregon State University, carotenoids play essential roles. One, they are the chemicals that give plants the characteristic red, yellow and orange colors mostly found in fruits and vegetables. Two, the phytochemical helps plants and algae to assimilate light, which ensures the process of photosynthesis takes place, as well as, to protect chlorophyll from photodamage (Johnson & Mayer, 2016). Three, carotenoids such as β-carotene, alpha-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, and gamma-carotene contain vitamin A, which provides antioxidants properties that protect an individual’s sense of sight and prevents the damage of cells (Johnson & Mayer, 2016). Additionally, these carotenoids containing Vitamin A facilitates the proper functioning of the retina in the eye by absorbing blue light and protecting the eye from damage. Another function of carotenoids is facilitating the communication of cells for their safeguarding (Johnson & Mayer, 2016). The phytochemical causes the stimulation of synthesis of connexin proteins forming pores in the cell cover. The pores allow the movement of molecules through the cell membrane hence, facilitating communication. Sources of carotenoids The sources of carotenoids include foods colored red, yellow and orange. Such foods include; carrots, sweet potatoes, yams, papaws, watermelon, cantaloupe, mangoes, pumpkin, tomatoes, bell peppers, egg yolk, and ...