Health benefits of Vitamin A
January 7th 2008 08:00
Like most vitamins, the existence of Vitamin A in our bodies is to help us maintain good health.
The primary role of vitamin A is to help build healthy eyes and for growth and bone development while its many other functions include aiding reproductive functions; its anticarcinogenic and antioxidantal properties; preventing and treatment of skin disorders and aging of skin; promoting the growth of strong hair, teeth, skin, and gums and stimulating immunity.
Carrots are one of the richest sources of Vitamin A
Vitamin A is found in a variety of dietary sources and they are:
- Apricots
- Asparagus (cooked)
- Broccoli
- Capsicums
- Carrots
- Dairy products
- Dark leafy greens
- Eggs
- Kidney
- Mangos
- Papayas
- Pumpkins
The high importance of vitamin A is such that health issues such as increased susceptibility to infectious diseases and vision problems can arise due to a deficiency in this vitamin. Thankfully, the aforementioned list of food sources high in vitamin A are just some of many thus a balanced diet is arguably the best way to get the daily requirement of 900 micrograms per day (mcg/day) for males aged 14 and above and 700 mcg/day for females aged 14 and above.
For infants and young children, the daily recommendation of vitamin A intake is as follows:
Infants:
0-6 months: 400 micrograms per day (mcg/day)
7-12 months: 500 mcg/day
Children:
1-3 years: 300 mcg/day
4-8 years: 400 mcg/day
9-13 years: 600 mcg/day
Bear in mind that too much of a good thing can have side effects and the same applies to vitamin A. Pregnant women should be wary that large doses of vitamin A can cause birth defects.
For the best health/medical advice, always consult your health care professional.
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