Your knees are likely orange due to a condition called carotenemia, where you have high levels of beta-carotene in your blood, resulting in yellow- or orange-colored skin.
Understanding Carotenemia
Carotenemia isn't usually harmful and is often linked to dietary habits.
Common Causes
- Excessive Carotene Intake: The most frequent reason is consuming too many foods or supplements rich in carotene, such as:
- Carrots
- Sweet potatoes
- Pumpkins
- Squash
- Certain fruits
What Happens?
When you eat large amounts of carotene-rich foods, your body may not be able to convert it all into Vitamin A quickly enough. The excess beta-carotene then gets stored in the skin, especially in areas like the knees, palms, and soles of the feet. This leads to the characteristic orange discoloration.
What to Do
According to research, this can be resolved by reducing carotene intake.
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Reduce Intake | Gradually decrease your consumption of carotene-rich foods. |
| Monitor Changes | Observe if the orange discoloration fades over time. It may take a few weeks or months to see improvement. |
| Consult a Doctor | If you have concerns or the discoloration persists despite dietary changes, see a healthcare professional. |
Important Note
- Carotenemia itself is generally benign and shouldn't cause complications. However, it's always a good idea to rule out other potential causes with a doctor.
