MICRO NUTRIENTS - VITAMIN - A

VITAMIN OF THE WEEK 

VITAMIN -A 

•  VITAMIN - A is a Fat Soluble Vitamin.

• There are two basic forms of vitamin A (retinoids and carotenoids) and both forms provide unique health benefits.

• If your body is able to effectively convert carotenoids into retinoids, you don't have to eat animal foods in order to obtain retinoid forms of vitamin A that are essential for health. If your body is unable to do this conversion effectively, you'll either need to include animal foods in your meal plan or obtain retinoid forms of vitamin A through dietary supplements.

• Many factors can compromise the body's ability to convert carotenoids into retinoids, including: genetic tendencies, digestive problems, bacterial imbalances in the gut, excessive alcohol use, excessive exposure to toxins, imbalanced intake of vitamin A and vitamin D in supplement form, and use of over-the-counter and/or prescription medications.

• Some Vitamin A health benefits will require you to eat foods that are rich in specific carotenoids. A great example is eye health and the unique role of two specific carotenoids (lutein and zeaxanthin) in the health of our eyes.

FUNCTIONS :

• Vision support

• Support of Immunity & Inflammatory Systems

• Cell Growth Support

• Promoting proper cell communication

• Essential for Reproductive process

• Place a major role in normal bone metabolism

FOOD SOURCES

VEGETARIAN SOURCES : 

          SWEET POTATO, CARROT, BEET ROOT, SPINACH, MUSK MELON, TOMATOES, BELL PEPPERS, BROCCOLI, PAPAYA,GRAPE FRUIT, WATERMELON, CELERY, APRICOT.

NON VEGETARIAN SOURCES :

                             SHRIMP, EGGS,SALMON, SARDINES, CHICKEN, TURKEY LIVER, COD LIVER OIL.

VITAMIN - A DEFICIENCY :

FOR CHILDREN : 

1.Causes severe visual impairment & blindness

2. Increases the risk of severe illness.

FOR ADULT : Causes Night Blindness