The Essence Of Vitamin A

Vitamin A has many important roles in many areas of the human body. Vitamin A is essential for healthy eyes and skin and to maintain a healthy immune system to protect against infections. The body cannot make vitamin A therefore incorporating vitamin A into one’s diet is crucial. A lack of vitamin A in the diet can lead to night blindness, dry skin, and poor wound healing.

1. I cannot see at night

One of the most important and first signs of vitamin A deficiency is night blindness. A study showed that taking vitamin A in diet or as a supplement was effective in improving eye health. There was an improvement in night vision by more than 50% during a 6 weeks course of treatment.

2. My flaky skin

Another essential sign of vitamin A deficiency is dry skin. Vitamin A helps with skin repair and inflammation. Not getting enough vitamin A can lead to skin conditions such as eczema which causes dry and itchy skin. One study found that the symptoms of patients with chronic eczema reduced after using a medication that contained vitamin A.

3. My wound is not healing

Wound healing is very important after an injury or surgery. Poor wound healing means there is a possibility of low vitamin A. Collagen is an important aspect of healthy skin and vitamin A plays an important role. Studies showed that there was an improvement in the wound after using topical vitamin A.

Additional signs of vitamin A deficiency

Sometimes a person can experience other signs of insufficient vitamin A. Inadequate vitamin A in the system can lead to health issues such as infertility, respiratory infections, and growth delays. Other skin conditions, such as acne or breakouts are also possible.

Why am I lacking vitamin A?

One common reason for insufficiency of vitamin A is due to not getting enough from food consumed. There are some medical disorders that put a person at risk of developing vitamin A deficiency. Most vitamin A is stored in the liver and liver disorders can create a negative impact. Some medical conditions include chronic diarrhea, celiac disease, alcohol use disorder, and cystic fibrosis.

Foods rich in vitamin A

Incorporating foods that are rich in vitamin A is vital due to the body’s inability to make vitamin A. Fruits and vegetables are always rich in some sort of vitamin. Some of these include orange, mango, papaya, green vegetables, carrot, sweet potato, pumpkin, and squash. Dairy products also add some benefits and fish and liver as well. Ensure these important foods are added to the diet; if needed, some doctors may also recommend taking supplements.