Vitamin A, the first thing that comes to mind is healthy vision and glowing skin.

Vitamin A, the first thing that comes to mind is healthy vision and glowing skin.

When we think of Vitamin A, the first thing that comes to mind is healthy vision and glowing skin.


Vitamin A is an essential vitamin that is important for general well-being. A fat-soluble vitamin, it’s vital for vision, skin health, immunity and more. Let’s explore some of the science behind this miracle nutrient and the extreme effect it has on the body.


What is Vitamin A? 

There are two main forms of vitamin A:

  1. Active Vitamin A (Retinoids): Found in animal-based foods, such as liver, eggs and dairy.

  2. Provitamin A (Carotenoids): Found in plant-based food, like carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens. The body transforms carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, into active vitamin A.

Vitamin A in vision

Vitamin A is most known for its eye health benefits. Generally, it constitutes an integral part of rhodopsin, a protein found in the retina, that absorbs light and makes night vision possible. A shortage can result in night blindness, or the inability of the eyes to acclimatize to the dark.

And vitamin A keeps the cornea (the outermost layer of the eye) healthy and prevents dryness, which reduces the likelihood of eye infections.


Skin health and cellular repair

Vitamin A is important for healthy skin with it fostering the growth of new skin cells. Retinoids, retinoids — which are vitamin A derivatives — are commonly used in dermatology for acne but also for wrinkles and skin quality. The nutrient aids in:

  • Reducing wrinkles by promoting collagen production

  • Accelerating wound healing.

  • Keeping skin from drying out and becoming flaky by retaining moisture.


Boosting Immunity

As an immunity booster, vitamin A fortifies the epithelial tissues that make up the body’s first line of defense — the skin, lungs, and intestines. It also increases the production of white blood cells, which combat infections.


Climbing and Bone Growth: A Love Story

Vitamin A is crucial for growth and development of bones. It furtherFunctions of reproductive health by maintaining healthy sperm synthesis in men and a normal pregnancy cycle in women.


Sources of Vitamin A

Animal-Based Sources: The liver (the richest source), fish oils, eggs, and dairy products.

Plant-Based Sources: Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale and mangoes are rich sources of beta-carotene, the precursor of vitamin A.


Deficiency Symptoms

Vitamin A deficiency can be responsible for accompaniments:

  • Night blindness.

  • Dry eyes and higher chance of eye infections.

  • Rough, dry skin.- Higher risk of infections.


**How Much Do You Need? **

The recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin K differs between age and gender but generally ranges from 700–900 micrograms (mcg) for adults. Pregnant and breastfeeding women may need more.


Final Thoughts

Vitamin A is essential for vision, growth, cell division, reproduction, bone metabolism, and immune system function. A balanced diet that includes both animal and plant sources will provide requirements for you. Keep in mind that although vitamin A is important, too much, particularly from supplements, can be harmful. Always speak with a health care provider before taking any supplements.


**Nourish your body with the right fuel, and you will see it flourish! **

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