Vitamin A

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a group of fat-soluble substances with a similar chemical structure. It is found in both animal and plant sources and its actions vary from treating acne and wrinkles to strengthening the immune system. See below and learn more about the sources, properties and contraindications that Vitamin A may present. ... Read More Ask a question

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Information - Vitamin A

What is Vitamin A?

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is formed in the body from carotenoids (provitamins). Retinol and beta-carotene are some of the most common forms of vitamin A found in foods and supplements. This molecule is mainly stored in the liver and obtained through the diet.

 

Health benefits

  • Contributes to normal iron metabolism *
  • Contributes to the maintenance of the normal condition of the mucous membranes and skin*
  • Contributes to maintaining normal vision*
  • Contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system*
  • Involved in the process of cell division*

Retinol, one of the most common forms of Vitamin A shows excellent effects on the face and especially in the treatment of acne.

 

Foods high in Vitamin A

Vitamin A is found in both animal and plant-based foods. The richest animal sources of vitamin A are:

  • liver
  • fish
  • the eggs
  • dairy products

and herbal sources:

  • the carrot
  • the sweet potato
  • the papaya
  • the mango
  • the Peach
  • the peppers
  • the spinach
  • the broccoli

 

Vitamin A deficiency

Its deficiency mainly causes eye and skin problems. The main symptoms are the following:

  • vision disorders (inability to see in the dark),
  • dry eye,
  • skin diseases (mainly dry skin)
  • and less commonly diarrhea and loss of appetite.

 

Recommended Daily Intake (RDI)

The recommended daily intake for adults is 700 µg for women and 900 µg for men.

However, in cases of overdose, hypervitaminosis may occur, resulting in the following symptoms:

  • hair loss,
  • headache,
  • anemia,
  • orange discoloration of the skin
  • altered consciousness,
  • muscular weakness,
  • weight loss and bone fractures.

 

Precautions for use and interactions

The simultaneous intake of vitamin A and anticoagulant treatment should be avoided.

Taking lipid-lowering agents, gout medications, liquid paraffin, antimicrobials, statins, and antacids prevent proper absorption of Vitamin A.

 

Side effects

Topical retinoid therapy can lead to local skin irritation, including:

  • of dryness,
  • of exfoliation,
  • and erythema

The side effects from the systemic administration of Vitamin A and especially retinoids depend on the dose. Skin and mucosal effects are common with cheilitis being the most common side effect.

 

Vitamin A during pregnancy

Vitamin A overdose in pregnancy appears to cause problems in the fetus, although the exact dose at which this occurs has not been fully determined.

It is worth noting that there is an increased daily need especially during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, due to the rapid growth of the fetus in that phase. However, the dose as well as the interval to be taken, must be determined by the respective doctor.

*The above information about Vitamin A are official health claims from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

 

Liability Disclaimer

Vita4you informs you that nutritional supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle or medical advice/opinion, are not medicines and are not intended to prevent, treat or cure human disease.

Vita4you makes every effort to ensure the accuracy and scientific validity of the information provided on the website. In case you find any discrepancy or have any question about the content please contact us.

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