Vitamin A – Retinol

Summary

Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin, which occurs in foods that contain fat. Beta Carotene is converted into Vitamin A. It is needed for the maintenance of skin that secretes mucous – mouth, nose, throat, lungs – to reduce susceptibility to infection.

Vitamin A is also needed for bone and teeth formation and helps protect the body from air pollutants.

Vitamin A is necessary for the healthy growth and repair of body tissues and helps with night vision and improves weak eyesight.

Deficiency of this could cause:

Can cause problems with eye and bone development/growth.

Night blindness.

Stunting of growth.

Infertility

Defective teeth/gums.

Increased susceptibility to infection.

Rough, dry, scaly skin.

Loss of smell and appetite.

Fatigue.

Vitamin A – Retinol can be used to Treat

Coeliac disease

Infection

Night blindness

Bronchitis

Immune system function

Peptic ulcer

Heavy periods

Wound healing

Acne

Normal Dosage

7,500 IU to 25,000 IU daily.

Possible Side Effects

Excess Vitamin A is stored in the liver for up to 2yrs, so can cause toxicity. This can cause pains in the bones and joints, skin dryness, itchy, flaky skin, hair loss, headaches and problems with vision.

Pregnant women should not take more than 10,000 IU per day.

Contra Indications

Naturally Found In

Beta Carotene is found in:

Orange and green leafy vegetables

Sweet potato

Butternut squash

Mangoes

Apricots

Broccoli

Turnip

Cos lettuce

Vitamin A is found in:

Fish oils

Dairy produce

Some seafoods

Butter

Whole milk

Egg yolks

Liver