carotenoid

Definition of carotenoid

carotenoid

(kuh-RAH-teh-noyd)
A yellow, red, or orange substance found mostly in plants, including carrots, sweet potatoes, dark green leafy vegetables, and many fruits, grains, and oils. Some carotenoids are changed into vitamin A in the body and some are being studied in the prevention of cancer. A carotenoid is a type of antioxidant and a type of provitamin.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms