Vitamin A - Sources and Functions

Sources of Vitamin A

Foods rich in vitamin A (Retinol) include those of animal origin such as sheep liver, egg yolk, whole milk, butter, and ghee. Vegetables such as colocasia, turnip greens, drumsticks, beet, carrots, and spinach contain a lot of carotene. Fruits like mangoes, apricots, gooseberries, raspberries, and oranges are also rich in carotene.

Functions of Vitamin A

1. The best-defined function of vitamin A is its role in vision. It provides the required stimulation for vision in the retina.
2. In addition, vitamin A is required for growth, reproduction, and the maintenance of life. It builds up resistance to respiratory and other infections, and keeps the mucous linings and membranes of the body, especially those of the eyes, lungs, stomach, and intestines, in a healthy condition.
3. Vitamin A prevents eye diseases, aids in the secretion of gastric juices, and the digestion of protein.
4. Retinol also plays a vital role in preventing and clearing up infections of the skin, and in promoting healthy hair, teeth, and gums.
5. Vitamin A increases the permeability of blood capillaries, thereby contributing better tissue oxygenation.
6. Retinol also helps prevent premature aging and senility, increases life expectancy, and extends youthfulness.

Vitamin A Deficiency Symptoms and Healing Properties and Precautions

Comments are closed.