Vitamin A: Supplements, Sources and More

Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that our body needs to stay healthy. This powerful vitamin plays an important role in boosting our immune system, vision, reproductive, and overall health.

It does not cure your dependence on eyeglasses but eating an adequate amount will support your overall eye health. It also helps in the production and activity of white blood cells in our body.

What is Vitamin A?

Vitamin A, also known as retinol, is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for body functions. Fat-soluble compounds include retinol, retinal, and retinyl esters. Two forms of this vitamin are found in food.

• Preformed Vitamin A: Found in animal product
• Provitamin A: Found in plant-based foods

Health benefits

It offers many health benefits. They are:

1. Supports Vision: The most well-known benefit of this vitamin is that it supports vision. This vitamin is responsible for the production of rhodopsin which is a protein in the eyes that helps vision in low light. Lack of this vitamin can cause night blindness.
2. Boosts Immunity: It helps to produce white blood cells which fight infections. A strong immune system is essential for keeping away from common colds and other illnesses.
3. Promotes Healthy Skin: It supports cell growth and repair to maintain healthy skin. Vitamin-rich foods like sweet potatoes and carrots are linked to glowing skin.
4. Enhances Reproductive Health: It helps reproduce and develop healthy embryos during pregnancy. It is vital for both male and female fertility.
5. Improves Bone Health: Some studies have shown that it regulates the activity of bone-forming cells (osteoblasts).

Deficiency

Vitamin A deficiency can have serious health consequences. Common signs include:

1. Night Blindness: The most noticeable sign of this vitamin deficiency is difficulty in dim light.
2. Dry Skin: If your skin is dry and rough then it could be a sign of this vitamin deficiency.
3. Weak Immune System: If constantly having a common cold or infections it might be due to insufficient of this.
4. Dry Eyes: It helps keep your eyes moist. Deficiency could lead to discomfort and dryness.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms then consult a healthcare provider.

Sources

There are two main sources. They are:

• Animal-Based Sources: These contain preformed Vitamin A (retinol).
  • Liver
  • Fish Oil
  • Eggs
  • Dairy Products (milk, Cheese, etc.)

• Plant-based Sources: These contain provitamin A carotenoids that our body converts into this Vitamin A.
  • Carrot
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Red Pepper

Side Effects

Vitamin A is vital for health. Having excess can lead to toxicity. This is why it is crucial to stick to the recommended dosage unless advised by a doctor. Some common side effects are:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Liver damage

Supplements

Getting from food sources is preferred but there might be some situations where its supplements could be necessary. Those who have difficulty absorbing fat might not get enough from food alone.

There are two common forms: Capsules and Tablets. Both are effective but some people find capsules easier to swallow while others prefer tablets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Summary

In summary, Vitamin A is a key nutrient supporting your vision, immunity, skin, and overall health. It comes in two different forms, preformed Vitamin A from animal-based foods and provitamin A from plant-based sources.

While deficiency can lead to issues, too much can cause side effects. If food sources are not enough then capsules or tablets can help. Most importantly stick to the recommended dose for a healthy balance.

To fill your nutritional gaps, you might want to explore Vitamin and mineral supplements in Nepal for a complete health boost.

You can order directly by calling us.
Contact: 9801205255, 9847396489

Or

For WhatsApp and Facebook:

• WhatsApp
• Facebook