Vitamin A

Vitamin A is important for vision, bone growth, reproduction, cell division and cell differentiation.

Vitamin A helps to regulate the immune system, which in turn helps prevent and resist infections. Vitamin A also may help lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) fight infections more effectively. Vitamin A helps to keep the surface linings of the eyes, respiratory, urinary, and intestinal tracts healthy. When these linings break down it becomes easier for bacteria to enter the body and cause infection. Vitamin A also helps skin and mucous membranes act as a barrier to bacteria and viruses.

Vitamin A can be found in foods such as whole eggs, milk, and liver. So-called fortified foods such as breakfast cereals also provide vitamin A. Carotenes that can be converted to vitamin A in the body are also found in darkly colored fruits and vegetables, carrots, spinach etc. Care should be taken if taking vitamin A supplements as these can be toxic in excessive doses.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article has been written for educational purposes only. Before undertaking any form of diet or exercise regime you should consult your doctor before commencement, particularly if there is an underlying medical condition.