Can You Refrigerate Dissolved Beta-Carotene for Next Day Use?

Beta-carotene

Hello, Dr.
Tsai.
Thank you for your previous response regarding the side effects of beta-carotene! Each beta-carotene capsule contains 25,000 IU, which is quite a high dosage.
Therefore, I dissolved the beta-carotene capsule in room temperature water, mixed the beta-carotene with the water quickly, and then drank half of it.
My question is, can I store the remaining half in the refrigerator and consume it the next day? Will mixing beta-carotene with water and refrigerating it for a day cause any degradation or oxidation of its nutrients? Thank you, doctor!

Xiao Yi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/03

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition

Hello, regarding β-carotene extraction, there are many enzymes that can rapidly break down carotenoids.
Additionally, carotenoids contain numerous unsaturated double bonds, and both light and heat can accelerate their degradation, resulting in poor stability.
It is usually necessary to add antioxidants such as vitamin C for protection.
As for storing it in the refrigerator after mixing with water, this is not a recommended storage method.
Alternatively, you might consider consuming it every few days.
This information is provided by Dietitian Tsai Hsiu-Wen from Nantou Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.
Wishing you peace and good health.

Reply Date: 2017/10/03

More Info

When it comes to the storage of dissolved beta-carotene, there are several important factors to consider regarding its stability and efficacy. Beta-carotene is a fat-soluble carotenoid that is commonly found in various fruits and vegetables, and it is often used as a dietary supplement due to its antioxidant properties and its role as a precursor to vitamin A.

Firstly, beta-carotene is sensitive to light, heat, and oxygen, which can lead to its degradation. When you dissolve beta-carotene in water, the exposure to these elements can potentially affect its stability. Storing dissolved beta-carotene in the refrigerator may help slow down the degradation process compared to leaving it at room temperature, but there are still considerations to keep in mind.

1. Oxidation: When beta-carotene is dissolved in water, it is more susceptible to oxidation. This means that if it is exposed to air, it can lose its potency. If you plan to store the dissolved beta-carotene in the refrigerator, it is advisable to keep it in a tightly sealed container to minimize exposure to oxygen.

2. Nutrient Stability: While refrigeration can help preserve the integrity of many nutrients, the water-soluble environment may not be ideal for beta-carotene. Water can facilitate the breakdown of certain compounds, and since beta-carotene is fat-soluble, it is typically better absorbed when taken with a fat source. Therefore, the effectiveness of beta-carotene may be compromised when dissolved in water and stored.

3. Duration of Storage: If you decide to refrigerate the dissolved beta-carotene, it is best to consume it within a short period, ideally within 24 hours. The longer it is stored, the greater the risk of nutrient degradation.
4. Taste and Palatability: Another practical consideration is the taste. Dissolved beta-carotene may have an unpleasant taste, and storing it may alter its flavor, making it less palatable when you consume it the next day.

5. Recommendations: If you find the dosage of beta-carotene in the capsule to be too high, consider discussing with your healthcare provider about adjusting the dosage or finding a more suitable form of supplementation. They may recommend taking the capsule with a small amount of healthy fat (like olive oil or avocado) to enhance absorption without the need for dissolution.

In conclusion, while you can refrigerate dissolved beta-carotene for a short period, it is not the most effective method for preserving its nutritional value. It is generally recommended to take beta-carotene in its original capsule form or to mix it with a fat source for better absorption and efficacy. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding supplementation and storage methods.

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