Hello there, 

We’re kicking off a new series spotlighting bioactive compounds in food—starting with beta-cryptoxanthin (BCX).

What if adding more color to your plate could support healthy aging? Aging naturally increases our cells' exposure to oxidative stress, which can affect how the body functions over time. But research shows that certain foods can help the body defend itself from the effects of this stress. One promising tool? A bioactive compound called beta-cryptoxanthin (BCX).

This week, we’re exploring how BCX—found in red-fleshed papayas, oranges, and persimmons—may support longevity by protecting your cells, reducing inflammation, and helping the body function more efficiently over time.

What Exactly is Beta-Cryptoxanthin (BCX)?

Beta-cryptoxanthin is a carotenoid—a naturally occurring bioactive compound that gives certain fruits and vegetables their distinctive orange-red pigment. Beyond its vibrant color, BCX functions as a potent antioxidant in the body. Once consumed, it’s converted into vitamin A, playing a crucial role in vision, immune health, and cell repair.

But what truly makes BCX stand out among other carotenoids? Its unique antioxidant profile helps combat oxidative stress—a key contributor to inflammation, aging, and chronic diseases.

What the Research Shows

A 2016 review published in Nutrition Reviews highlighted several human studies exploring how beta-cryptoxanthin (BCX)—a bioactive found in fruits like oranges, papayas, and persimmons—may support long-term health.

Here’s what researchers found:

• BCX is highly bioavailable—even more so than other common carotenoids like beta-carotene. Studies show the body absorbs BCX efficiently from everyday foods like oranges and papayas.

• BCX is one of the top carotenoids found in human blood, and research shows its presence in the brain—indicating its widespread role in supporting health across the body.

• Some studies associate higher BCX intake with health benefits, including a lower risk of lung cancer and improved bone mineral density in postmenopausal women.

Together, these findings suggest that regularly eating BCX-rich fruits may play a valuable role in promoting health and resilience over time.

Boost Your BCX Intake with These Fruits

The richest dietary sources of BCX are vibrant orange-red fruits—specifically red-fleshed papayas, oranges, and persimmons. Each offers unique nutritional benefits alongside BCX:

• Papaya (1 cup = ~274 µg BCX): Particularly rich in digestive enzymes and vitamin C, enhancing digestive health and immune support.

• Oranges (1 medium = ~192 µg BCX): Packed with fiber and flavonoids, promoting cardiovascular health and immune function.

• Persimmons (1 medium = ~198 µg BCX): Contain dietary fiber, manganese, and vitamin C, offering additional antioxidant support and heart-healthy benefits.

Making these fruits a regular part of your diet can provide diverse and powerful support to your long-term health.

Note: µg stands for micrograms, a unit of measure equal to one-millionth of a gram. While there’s no official daily target for BCX, research suggests that even small amounts from fruit may offer health benefits.

Want to make BCX-rich fruits a regular part of your routine?

Download our free Bioactive Spotlight guide featuring red-fleshed papayas, oranges, and persimmons—plus simple ways to enjoy more of this powerful bioactive in your diet.

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Best wishes,
- The Angiogenesis Foundation