Nutritional Guide

Why you need it?

Vitamin A helps cells reproduce normally- a process called differentiation. Vitamin A also stimulates immunity and is needed for formation of bone, protein, and growth hormone.

Vitamin A helps cells reproduce normally – a process called differentiation. Cells that have not properly differentiated are more likely to undergo precancerous. Vitamin A, by maintaining healthy cell membranes, helps prevent infections. Vitamin A also stimulates immunity and is needed for formation of bone, protein, and growth hormone. Beta-carotene, a substance from plants that the body can convert into Vitamin A, also acts as an antioxidant. Other members of the carotene family include cryptoxanthin, alphacarotene, zeaxanthin, Lutein, and Lycopene, but most do not convert to significant amounts of Vitamin A.

Anti-Cancer Function

Retinoid deficiency enhances susceptibility to carcinogenesis both in experimental animals and in humans.

Epithelial tissue development and maintenance

Retinoic acid is needed for the differentiation of basal cells into mucus epithelialcells. A deficiency results in keratinization of mucus membranes that line the respiratory tract, intestines, urinary tract, and epithelium of the eye. This decreases the protective barrier role played by these membranes resulting in an increased number of infections and other pathologies.

Growth and bone development

Vitamin A (Retinoic acid) is necessary for growth and development of skeletal and soft tissues. Normal enamel-forming epithelial cells also require Vitamin A to develop. A deficiency of Vitamin A in the first 5 years of life results in a deficient enamel layer on teeth.

Immunity

Vitamin A maintains the integrity of the mucus membranes and, thus, is vital for protecting the body against bacterial, viral or parasitic infections.

Reproduction

Vitamin A is involved in steroid hormone synthesis and cell differentiation. It is critical for healthy growth, normal reproduction and lactation.

Vision

Both Retinyl esters and Beta-Carotene are critical for maintaining healthy vision.

Deficiency Symptoms:

The earliest deficiency sign is poor night vision. Deficiency symptoms can also include dry skin, increased risk of infections, and metaplasia ( a precancerous condition).

Good Food Sources:

Dark green and orange-yellow vegetables are good sources of Beta-Carotene. Liver, dairy, and cod liver oil provide Vitamin A.

Precautions

GRAS – Generally recognized as safe. No adverse reactions, side effects or overdose symptoms expected when taken within the recommended amounts.

No adverse effects have been reported as a result of taking Beta-Carotene supplements during pregnancy or lactation. Individuals taking Beta-Carotene for long periods of time should also supplement with Vitamin E, as Beta-Carotene may reduce Vitamin E levels.

Women who are or could become pregnant should take less than 10,000 IU (3,000µg) per day of Vitamin A to avoid the risk of birth defects. For other adults, intake above 25,000 IU (7,500µg) per day can- in rare cases- cause headaches, dry skin, hair loss, fatigue, bone problems, and liver damage. Beta-Carotene, however, does not cause cause any side effects, aside from excessive intake (more than 100,000 IU, or 60mg per day) sometimes giving the skin a yellow-orange hue.

Retinol contraindicated with compromised liver, hepatitis or any liver disease.

Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan): requires hepatic oxidation for activation; antioxidants interfere with this process.

The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only. Neither the information provided nor products supplied or offered should be construed to be in any way substitutes for medical attention or prescribed medication. Consult with your healthcare professional before taking any supplements or herbal remedies if you are suffering from an undiagnosed illness or if you are on prescribed medication.

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