* Alpha-carotene is a known fighter of free radicals.
*Cancer : While alpha-carotene is chemically similar to beta-carotene, several studies seem to demonstrate that alpha-carotene is much more effective in decreasing mortality for certain forms of cancer (lung, prostate, liver, etc.) Together with lycopene, alpha-carotene was associated with reduced risk of lung cancer in a study of two large cohorts published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
* Vision health. Alpha-carotene supports vision health by creating [[vitamin A]], which is needed for low-light vision and cell health. Alpha-carotene's contribution to vision health is much the same as that of beta-carotene.
* [[Diabetes]]. Patients with highest levels of alpha-carotene intake are 48% (men) and 39% (women) less likely to develop type 2 diabetes, although intake of all antioxidants was not significant as a risk factor.
==Food Sources of Alpha-carotene==