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Vitamin A

One term for a group of related compounds that are integral to eye health.

sweet potato

What is Vitamin A?

Vitamin A is a broad term for a group of related compounds such as retinol and retinoic acid that perform an array of functions. Best known for supporting eye health, vitamin A is involved in transmitting images to the brain and helping you see in low light.*

Carotenoids, including beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin, are present in plant foods, and can be converted into retinol by the body. Your body produces retinol most efficiently from beta-carotene.*

Alpha-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin can also be converted into vitamin A, but only half as efficiently as beta-carotene. Lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin are other carotenoids that cannot be converted into vitamin A, but still offer health benefits. Beta-carotene also functions as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from free radicals, forms of oxygen that damage the outer layer of cells. Free radicals are created in response to normal metabolism, and to exposure to toxins in cigarette smoke and air pollution, for example.*

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Why is Vitamin A Important?

Vitamin A is necessary for maintaining the integrity of the skin, the linings of your urinary tract, lungs, and digestive system. These barriers help support your immune system. Vitamin A also supports white blood cell formation, which plays a role in immune function.*

900 mcg

900 mcg

Recommended Dietary Allowance (RAE[1])

Sources of Vitamin A

sweet potato

Sweet Potatoes

carrots

Carrots

kale

Kale

Vitamin A Helps Support

Eye Health

Eye Health

 

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Pregnancy

Pregnancy

 

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Explore Additional Vitamins & Minerals

Bc

Beta-carotene

Helps support:

Eye Health
Immune Health

L

Lutein

Helps support:

Eye Health

C

Vitamin C

Helps support:

Bone Health
Hair and Skin
Immune Health

E

Vitamin E

Helps support:

Eye Health
Heart Health
Immune Health

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

1. Retinol activity equivalents – Retinol is preformed vitamin A found in meat, dairy, fish, and supplements and gets converted in the body. Return to reference