Vitamin A mainly comes from animal sources and the precursor form, beta-carotene (also known as provitamin A) is found in plants which typically have intense colors such as dark green leafy vegetables and brightly colored fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes and cantaloupe.
Vitamin A is stored in the liver and helps maintain healthy teeth, bones and soft tissue. It reduces susceptibility to infections by protecting the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, throat and lungs. Vitamin A is also referred to as retinol since it generates the pigments that are necessary for the working of the retina and are important for maintaining normal vision. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to weak eyesight and in extreme cases night-blindness.
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin. A fat-soluble vitamin dissolves and remains in the fatty tissues of the body, reducing the need to ingest large quantities. As such symptoms from a defiency in fat-soluble vitamins may not be apparent for years. They should not be consumed in excess unless under strict medical supervision since toxic reactions from fat-soluble vitamins occur at a smaller percentage of the RDA than water-soluble vitamins.
Different forms or alternative names for Vitamin A (Retinol):
beta-carotene (provitamin A)
retinol
antiophthalmic
Importance of Vitamin A (Retinol):
assists body tissue growth and repair
promotes healthy skin
protects mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, throat and lungs
reduces susceptibility to infections
protects against air pollutants
counteracts night-blindness and weak eyesight
aids in bone and teeth formation
foods rich in beta-carotene may reduce the risk of lung cancer and certain oral cancers
Good sources of Vitamin A (Retinol) are:
kale, liver, spinach, broccoli, carrots…
Tags: vitamins
