Vitamin A Supplement- Benefits, Sources and Side Effects
Apart from being a great antioxidant, the vitamin also plays a powerful role in helping maintain healthy eyes, neurological functions, healthy skin, and much more. Other than this, it assists in reducing inflammation, fighting aging naturally, making bones stronger, warding off infections, and more. Unlike developing countries, Vitamin A deficiency is rarely found in developed nations. These days, expecting women, breastfeeding mothers, infants, and children stand the maximum risk of suffering from Vitamin A deficiency.
Vitamin A - Health Benefits
Beta carotene is a type of Vitamin A, which is usually found in plants. It can help in treating macular degeneration, the primary reason behind blindness in older people. A study shows that people who take Vitamin A and other vitamins regularly are less likely to be harmed by macular degeneration. For dry eyes, Vitamin A eye drops can be very beneficial. According to a study at the Columbia University Medical Center in New York, the intake of the synthetic and altered form of Vitamin A can reduce the development of Stargardt's disease that can cause acute vision loss in young adults.
Adequate Vitamin A is required for the smooth functioning of the immune system. Vitamin A regulates the genes that are involved in immune responses. Immune system functions are dependent on sufficient Vitamin A for combating acute conditions like cancer and autoimmune diseases. Vitamin A also helps in getting rid of flu or common cold.
You can boost your immune system to prevent chronic health issues through beta-carotene, which is a strong antioxidant. The immunity of younger children can be enhanced through the intake of Vitamin A. According to a study, the mortality of children in middle-income nations decreased by 24% post the consumption of Vitamin A supplements. The deficiency of this vitamin in children can lead to diarrhoea and measles.
Because of its antioxidant properties, Vitamin A can help fight inflammation and cellular damage. Food allergies can cause inflammation, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's in the long run. The right dose of Vitamin A can help you keep such health conditions at bay.
d) Supports Skin Health and Cell Growth
Vitamin A is known for enhancing skin re-growth and healing wounds apart from fighting skin cancer. Vitamin is required for making glycoproteins, a mixture of sugar and protein, which assists in binding cells for the formation of soft tissues. People with Vitamin A deficiency would suffer from poor complexion, acne, wrinkles and unhealthy skin. Vitamin A intake can also lead to strong and healthy hair.
e) Aids Physical & Mental Functions
Vitamin A is essential for actions related to our central nervous system and various physiological functions. Hemoglobin production is also regulated through Vitamin A. The intake of Vitamin A supplements also boosts sperm cells formation and it is essential for a stable metabolism and a healthy liver, brain, and stomach.
Apart from making bones stronger, Vitamin A also helps people recover from bone fractures. This vitamin makes teeth stronger in growing children besides boosting their overall growth.
Vitamin A comes in two primary forms - active Vitamin A and beta carotene. Active Vitamin A can be obtained from animal-derived food, whereas beta carotene is found in fruits and vegetables. For antioxidants, doctors recommend a balanced diet that includes loads of fruits, vegetables and whole foods instead of Vitamin A tablets or Vitamin A capsules. Other great sources of Vitamin A are liver, oily fish, cheese, egg, and dairy products including milk.
Side Effects of Vitamin A
It is important to understand that high doses of Vitamin A can be very harmful. The intake of excessive Vitamin A supplements along with other antioxidants can cause birth defects and lower bone density and weaken the liver. Overdose of Vitamin A can engender various health problems like jaundice, nausea, appetite loss, vomiting, and loss of hair. If you are planning for Vitamin A online purchase, take fewer doses, and go for supplements that are made of various food items. Heavy alcohol drinkers or people suffering from kidney or liver problems should avoid taking Vitamin A without consulting a physician. Vitamin A toxicity can lead to dry skin, joint pain, and severe headache. It is always better to talk to a doctor before going for various Vitamin A supplements. Knowing what is appropriate for you and your age will make a huge difference to your body and health.