Can You Take Beta-Carotene and Phytoene Together?

May affect absorption

The short answer

Phytoene is a colorless carotenoid precursor that shares intestinal absorption pathways with Beta-Carotene. Co-supplementation may reduce the bioavailability of both carotenoids.

How to arrange timing

Separate Phytoene and Beta-Carotene by at least 2 hours.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Reboul E. Absorption of vitamin A and carotenoids by the enterocyte: focus on transport proteins. Nutrients. 2013;5(9):3563-3581.

Important context

Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.