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Vitamin A
Vitamin A is the first vitamin discovered, hence its position at the head of the vitamin alphabet!
In the 1900s, scientists recognized that a certain substance in animal fats and fish oils was necessary for the growth of young animals. The called it Fat soluble A, and later on renamed it Vitamin A.
Vitamin A occurs in several forms: Beta-Carotene, Retinoic Acid, Retinol, Retinol Palmitate, Carotenoids Etretinare and Isotretinon.
Vitamin A Health Benefits
It is essential for proper vision because it maintains a healthy cell structure of the eye.
It is important for normal growth, especially proper development of bones and teeth. Bone Loss, one of the most disturbing menopause symptoms, can be prevented with proper vitamins and minerals intake, including Vitamin A.
It is a major factor in healthy skin development and maintenance. Dry skin, wrinkles, stretch marks are menopause solutions that can be treated with Vitamin A based products.
It protects the mucous membranes in the linings of the mouth and nose.
It protects the delicate lining of the lungs, throat, and both the urinary and digestive tracts.
Is important for reproduction, it aids for normal sperm formation and growth of a healthy fetus.
It helps the immune systems.
It helps cells reproduce normally, a process called differentiation. Cells that do not differentiate into specific cell types have a greater chance of undergoing pre-cancerous changes than normally differentiated cells. Current studies suggest that adequate Retinol levels can help prevent cancers of the liver, prostate and possibly the colon.
Foods Rich in Vitamin A
Liver, cod liver oil, fish, parsley and other green herbs, green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, broccoli, carrots, squash, tomatoes, apricots, peaches, milk, dairy products and eggs.
The importance of eating certain foods to maintain good health was known long before vitamins were discovered. For example, ancient Egyptians knew that eating liver would help cure night blindness, an illness now known to be caused by a vitamin A deficiency.
Vitamin A Deficiency
Vitamin A deficiency causes lots of problems: night blindness, dry or rough skin, loss of appetite, prolonged diarrhea, dry and inflamed eyes, weak teeth and bones, low resistance to infections.
Don't forget! Like minerals, excess vitamins can produce toxic effects. The toxic ranges do not apply to each individual. Dosage must be prescribed individually, because some people may be able to absorb more than others. Ask your doctor before taking any supplements.
Don't forget! Like minerals, excess vitamins can produce toxic effects. The toxic ranges do not apply to each individual. Dosage must be prescribed individually, because some people may be able to absorb more than others.
Vitamin A is the first vitamin discovered, hence its position at the head of the vitamin alphabet!