Can You Take Beta-Carotene and Vitamin E Together?

Dose or timing may matter

The short answer

High-dose beta-carotene may interfere with vitamin E absorption and reduce plasma alpha-tocopherol levels. Both compete for incorporation into lipoproteins as fat-soluble antioxidants.

How to arrange timing

Moderate beta-carotene intake when supplementing vitamin E; monitor vitamin E status if using high-dose beta-carotene.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Xu MJ et al. Effect of beta-carotene supplementation on plasma alpha-tocopherol. J Am Coll Nutr. 1992;11(5):613

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.