VITAMIN A – WHY WE NEED IT ?

Vitamin A belongs to the group of fat-soluble vitamins and was the first vitamin to be discovered. It is very important for general well-being and health. It is vital for keeping good sight, bone structure, skin, hair, teeth and gums. Without the required amount of vitamin A, the organism is more susceptible to infections.Vitamin A is an important antioxidant and helps prevent cell damage from the free radicals. It also helps protect the skin from the harmful rays of the sun. In addition, it greatly helps in the healing of acne or spots.
It has been proven that vitamin A acts prophylactically when it comes to some types of cancer. It also regulates the bad cholesterol levels and decreases the risk of heart disease in the organism.

SYMPTOMS OF VITAMIN A DEFICIENCY

Luckily, most of the population intakes enough vitamin A through food. However, vitamin A deficiency although considered rare, still occurs People who are at most risk are those who have cancer, tuberculosis, pneumonia, chronic kidney disease or prostate disease.

Some of the symptoms that occur with vitamin A deficiency include:

• Being prone to viral infections
• Hair loss
• Problems with the bones
• Loss of appettite

TOO MUCH VITAMIN A

Ingesting too much vitamin A can lead to damage to the mucosa, hair loss, elbow pain, headaches and general weakness. It is vital to keep track of vitamin A intake in pregnant women because ingesting too much can result in damage to the fetus. The side-effects disappear as soon as intake of vitamin A is stopped. Because of these side-effects it is recommended to limit the daily intake of vitamin A to 1000 µg There are lots of vitamin A enriched products out on the market (butter) as well as lots of supplements which contain vitamin A or it’s pro vitamin called carotene.