Title: The “Carrot Tan” Craze: Fact or Fiction?
Subtitle: Experts weigh in on the latest TikTok beauty trend
Date: [Insert Date]
Byline: [Insert Author Name]
The latest beauty trend taking TikTok by storm is the “carrot tan,” which claims that eating three carrots a day can give you a natural tan. But is there any truth to this viral sensation, and more importantly, is it healthy? We dive into the science behind this trend to separate fact from fiction.
Carotenoids, natural pigments found in fruits and vegetables, are responsible for their vibrant red, orange, and yellow colors. The most well-known carotenoid, beta-carotene, gives carrots their distinct orange hue. When we consume foods with beta-carotene, our bodies convert it into vitamin A, which plays a crucial role in various bodily functions.
However, the body regulates the conversion of beta-carotene into vitamin A based on its needs. When there is an excess of beta-carotene, it can be stored in the liver and fat tissue or excreted through sweat glands in the outer layer of the skin, leading to a condition called carotenoderma. This condition gives the skin a yellow/orange pigment, but it is not the same as a natural sun-induced tan.
While carrots contain high amounts of beta-carotene, they are not the only source. Dark-green leafy vegetables, other yellow and orange-colored fruits and vegetables, as well as herbs like parsley and basil, also contain this beneficial compound.
So how many carrots would you need to eat to see a noticeable change in your skin color? Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer. While some sources suggest eating at least ten carrots a day for several weeks, others claim that a few days of high carrot intake are insufficient to induce skin color changes. Factors such as carrot variety, size, ripeness, preparation (raw or cooked), and fat intake with the carrot can also impact the amount of beta-carotene absorbed.
It is important to note that consuming large amounts of preformed vitamin A, found in animal-based foods, can be toxic. However, provitamin A compounds like beta-carotene do not pose the same risk, as the body regulates their conversion into active vitamin A. Nevertheless, for smokers, high-dose beta-carotene supplements may increase the risk of lung cancer due to changes in chemical signaling pathways. The Cancer Council advises against exceeding 20 mg of beta-carotene supplements per day if you are a smoker.
Experts emphasize the importance of a varied diet that includes a wide range of colorful vegetables, rather than solely relying on carrots, to promote overall health and enhance skin tone naturally. Fresh vegetables provide a plethora of nutrients, and each embodies different unique benefits.
Regardless of your dietary choices, it is crucial to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by using sunscreen when spending time outdoors.
In conclusion, while the “carrot tan” trend may have gained popularity on TikTok, the science behind it remains ambiguous. Incorporating a diverse range of vegetables into your diet can promote a natural radiance and contribute to overall well-being. So, the next time you’re at the grocery store, remember to load up on various colorful veggies and don’t forget your sunscreen.
[Author Name] is a Professor of Community Health and Wellbeing at the University of Queensland, while [Co-Author Name] is a Dietitian, Researcher, and Lecturer at Southern Cross University.
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.