Carotenoids
Carotenoids are phytochemicals that form pigments present in yellow and orange fruits and vegetables. Plants use these chemicals to help absorb the light they use for energy and to help protect the plant from damage that the light can do to cells. Only a few of the more than 850 known carotenoids have been studied with relationship to human health. The current research on these compounds has shown that these phytochemicals work in the skin and eyes to provide antioxidant protection against environmental toxin exposure. Carotenoids also work within the body to decrease inflammation related to cardiovascular disease.