OVERVIEW OF VITAMIN A

Abstract

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for many bodily functions, includingproper vision, a strong immune system, reproduction and good skin health. There are two typesof vitamin A found in foods: preformed vitamin A and provitamin A. It is also known as retinoland commonly found in meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. Besides, body converts carotenoidsin plant foods, such as red, green, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, into vitamin A.But, many people in developing countries do not get enough Vitamin A. The highest risk ofvitamin A deficiency is in pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, infants and children. Signsand symptoms of vitamin A deficiency could be dry skin, dry eyes, night blindness, male andfemale infertility and trouble conceiving, delayed growth, throat and chest infections, poorwound healing, acne and breakouts, cystic fibrosis and chronic diarrhea. However, hypervitaminosisA, excess vitamin A, or vitamin A toxicity causes serious vision changes, mouthulcers, confusion and birth defects.