Sunday 17 November 2013

Vitamin A | Importance, Sources and Deficiency Symptoms

Vitamins are the micronutrients that are too essential for the proper development of the body along with minerals, protein, carbohydrates and fats. They play a major role in proper growth, cell division, proper functioning of cells and boosting the immune system. A healthy diet is included with the appropriate amount of all macronutrients, minerals and vitamins. Though they are needed in small amounts but they have their particular effect on health and well-being.

  • Importance of Vitamin A

Particularly vitamin A is essential to maintain a normal vision. It is important for eye health and prevents night blindness, reduces the risk of cataract and macular degeneration and eyes inflammation. The required amount of vitamin A cannot be made by the body itself to maintain health. The particular strong antioxidant activity of vitamin A is essential for eyes, skin, bones, immune system and it helps in protect cells against cancer and cardiovascular ailments. It also plays a major part in reproductive health and breastfeeding of infants. It aids in moisture retention in the body that prevents dryness of skin. Adequate amount of vitamin A assists in having smooth and shiny skin. It’s well known for acne treatment. It replaces the old tissues and promotes healthy skin, strong bones and teeth.

  • Sources of Vitamin A

Consuming a wide variety of food is the best way to get required macro and micro nutrients. Vitamin A is lavishly found in many foods including meat, vegetables, grains and fruits. In animal sources meat, cheese, eggs, milk and a number of fish are the rich sources of vitamin A. Additionally a variety of veggies and fruits provide large amount of this vitamin including carrots, cantaloupe, broccoli, apricots, spinach, apples, papaya, basil and many more.

  • Symptoms of Vitamin A Deficiency

The deficiency of vitamin A can develop certain health problems in which one of the most common problem is vision issues. The itching, burning and inflammation in eyes are the most common symptoms of lacking of vitamin A in diet. This can lead to night blindness when even in the day people are unable to see in dim light. Skin irritation and roughness is another common sign of vitamin A deficiency. This can be included with the changes in the respiratory tract as nose; throat and bronchi become rough and dry. Vitamin A deficiency leads to multiple infections as well.

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