Vitamin A
Vitamin A maintains the health of the cells that line nose, throat, respiratory, digestive, and urinary tracts.
Vitamin A Properties
Vitamin A is a group of fat-soluble vitamins that come in 2 forms:
- Animal derived
- Plant derived
Animal derived Vitamin A is referred to as retinol (or preformed Vitamin A) – is the most biologically active form.
Plant derived Vitamin A (like the colorful carotenoids in fruits and vegetables) can be converted to the active, or retinol form of Vitamin A. These carotenoids are referred to as Provitamin A.
About 70% - 90% of the body’s vitamin A is stored in the liver.
Vitamin A for Your Eyes
Vitamin A plays a key role in a formation of rhodopsin, the visual pigment in the retina that is essential for the eyes to adopt to the dark. As vitamin A level fall, it becomes difficult to see in dim light.
Food Sources
- Beef liver
- Chicken liver
- Shrimp
- Eggs
- Whole milk
- Yogurt
- Butter
- Cheese
Carotenoids are found in:
- Carrots
- Pumpkin
- Apricots
- Broccoli
- Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach)