Vitamin A
Type: Vitamin
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is needed for proper development and functioning of eyes, skin and immunity. Acting as an antioxidant, it also helps protect cells against free radical damage. It is especially critically needed during pregnancy and early childhood development. Being fat-soluble in nature, it means that vitamin A is stored by in the liver and fat tissue therefore excessive amounts may be negatively affect the body. Symptoms of excessive consumption include nausea, dizziness and headaches.
Vitamin A comes in two forms:
Provitamin A (carotenoids)
- The inactive form found in plants include green, yellow and orange vegetables
- Usually converted into preformed vitamin A in the body
Preformed Vitamin A (retinol, retinal, retinoic acid)
- The active form found in animal products include eggs, meat, cheese, animal organ meats like liver
- Often used more readily by the body
Symptoms of a deficiency in vitamin A include dry skin, dry eyes, poor growth and night blindness.
Share
Stay Inspired with Health Trends
28 Feb 2025
Women's Wellness by the Decade: An International Women's Day Focus
International Women’s Day falls on 8 March and this is a special day to celebrate all strong, unique, capable, and talented women around the world!
Every woman wants to age gracefully – from your 20s to 50s and beyond. There are steps you can take during each phase of life to keep you well and healthy. This is your guide to women’s wellness through the decades.
04 Feb 2025
How Burned Out are You?
“Leave it to me, I can handle this!” - This is what most would say, but how much one can manage before it’s too much?
03 Nov 2024
Is The Sunshine Vitamin Really Enough?
“Sunshine is all you need for your daily dose of Vitamin D”, or is it?
13 Oct 2023
Make No Bones About It
Do you know? Bones need more than just calcium to stay strong.
08 Jul 2023
Glycation And How It Ages Our Skin
Love sweet treats? Better think twice before popping them in your mouth. Glycation occurs when there are excess sugars forming bonds with your body’s proteins and fats, which results in advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that may be harmful to health and skin. Read to find out more!