With its strong antioxidant activity it helps to support the immune system by reducing the chances of inflammation which can damage tissues and cells; it also helps to abate the aging process, allowing you retain some of your youthful looks for longer.
It is estimated that half of the countries in the world have a vitamin A deficiency, it is most prevalent in developing countries and the most common victims are children and pregnant women.
Vitamin A is a term for a number of retinoids that dissolve in fat which includes beta carotene, retinal, retinol, as well as their namesake retinoids. They are micronutrient chemical compounds that are used in the production of enzymes involved in growth and development. Only small amounts of this micronutrient are enough to promote normal function of the body.
This vitamin takes different forms according to its food source, in plants it is present in carotenoids and is plentiful in carrots, green leafy veggies, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, as well as fruits that are green, orange or yellow. It can be found as a retinoid in animal products such as cheese, egg yolks, chicken, liver, fish, and meat.
Certain individuals may be more vulnerable to a vitamin A deficiency, these people should consume foods that are rich in this vitamin on a regular basis. Preterm babies have immature livers that are not able to store much of this vitamin and they need a steady supply until they finish growing.
Those living in developing countries with food supply issues are also vulnerable to a deficiency, this would be doubled for infants if their mothers are deficient. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers also need a greater amount of vitamin A.
Vegans are also at a risk of vitamin A deficiency as they don’t benefit from the bio-available amounts found in animal products. Those who suffer from diseases that hamper the ability to assimilate fat will not get enough of the fat soluble vitamin A, this includes alcoholics who often have liver issues such as cirrhosis, and those with bowel disorders such as Coeliac and Crohn’s disease.
