Those with high levels of alpha-carotene in their blood live longer

People with high levels of alpha-carotene in their blood, meaning those who eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, have a lower risk of early death and are more likely to live longer than others.

This conclusion was made and published in the journal Archives of Internal Medicine by researchers from the CDC (Center for Disease Prevention and Control), Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

Alpha-carotene, beta-carotene and lycopene are carotenoids found in plants and microorganisms. They can counteract oxygen-damaged DNA, fats, and proteins that contribute to cancer, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses.

Humans obtain carotenoids primarily from fruits and vegetables. Below is a list of vegetables rich in alpha-carotene:

Carrots
Sweet potatoes
Pumpkin
Broccoli
Green beans
Green peas
Spinach
Turnip greens
Collards
Lettuce

Researchers say eating plenty of fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases.

The experiment was carried out over almost 20 years. 15,318 men and women aged 20 years or more were taken under observation. Between 1988 and 1994 they provided blood samples and did regular medical examinations. Until 2006, 3,810 members of the group died.

The following result was published:

those with blood alpha-carotene levels of 2-3 micrograms per deciliter had a 23% lower risk of death compared to those with levels of 0-1;
those with blood alpha-carotene levels of 4-5 micrograms per deciliter had a 27% lower risk of death compared to those with levels of 0-1;
Those with blood alpha-carotene levels of 6-8 micrograms per deciliter had a 34% lower risk of death compared to those with levels of 0-1.
Those with blood alpha-carotene levels of 9 micrograms per deciliter had a 39% lower risk of death compared to those with levels of 0-1.

People with higher concentrations of alpha-carotene in their blood had a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease and cancer. Alpha-carotene inhibits the growth of skin, liver and brain cancer cells. In addition, research has shown that consuming the above list of vegetables is better at preventing the development of lung cancer than consuming other vegetables.

Therefore, to avoid early death, you need to increase the amount of fruits and vegetables you consume in your diet.