Vitamin A is an essential nutrient meaning we must obtain it from our diet as our bodies cannot create it.
What does Vitamin A do?
Vitamin A is crucial for the body's defense against bacteria and viruses. It also helps protect the mucous membranes (the lining of the mouth, nose, throat and lungs) and helps protect you against cancer. It is a powerful compound that is drawn from plant and animal sources to build or maintain an effective immune system.
Vitamin A is also essential for the eyes – for good night vision, colour perception, prevention of cataracts and blindness.
It is required by men and women for fertility, however high levels of intake while pregnant can increase the risk of birth defects.
This vitamin is one of the anti-aging vitamins. It also helps to give glowing skin and helps keep its elasticity and plays a key role in growth and bone development.
Vitamin A deficiency symptoms can include:
- Blindness/poor vision
- Respiratory tract infections
- Prolonged colds
- Scaly skin
- Inflamed mucous membranes
- Dry, dull hair/dandruff
- Ridged nails
- Excessive hair loss
- Poor sense of taste and smell
Best food sources of Vitamin A:
- Liver
- Carrots
- Sweet potatoes
- Spinach
You should take a small amount of fat when taking Vitamin A as it is a fat soluble substance. You can get Vitamin A directly from a supplement or indirectly by eating foods high in beta-carotene. Your body then converts beta-carotene into the Vitamin A it needs
If taking a Vitamin A supplement be careful not to exceed the recommended dose as it can be toxic to the human body. Also be wary if taking with other supplements such as fish oil or fish liver as many have high levels of Vitamin A.
See also Vitamin D
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