Carotenemia

If your skin begins turning orange, you may feel like the star of a sci-fi flick, but there is most likely a more down-to-earth explanation. Carrots, cantaloupe and other soil-grown foods are chock-full of beta-carotene, and when eaten in abundance they can sometimes cause people to develop an orange skin tone. The orange and red pigments in apricots, mangoes, oranges, pumpkins, squash, sweet potatoes and similar products create an excessive amount of beta-carotene in the bloodstream, which in turn builds up in the areas of the body with thicker skin hands, knees, elbows, feet and the folds around the nose and exhibits a titian hue. This is called carotenemia. The condition is more visible in those with light skin, but people of any skin color can be affected. Carotenemia isn't terribly common, even in people who are fruit and vegetable enthusiasts. It's usually the result of a restricted diet that includes large quantities of a specific fruit or vegetable that is high in red, orange and yellow pigment; this pigment is also known as beta-carotene. While orange, yellow and red fruits and veggies are the primary source of carotenosis, it can also be caused by other colored foods such as cabbage, spinach, kiwi, asparagus and apples. So, if you're looking for a healthy glow, keep eating those fruits and veggies as long as there is a variety of them.