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Benefits of Vitamin A

The primary benefits of Vitamin A relate to vision and overall body moisture (eyes, skin, and mucous membranes). Most people in Western countries get enough of this vitamin from natural sources and in fact over consume it with possible negative health effects. Benefits of Vitamin A continued below.

Detailed Health Benefits of Vitamin A

The benefits of Vitamin A (retinol) are numerous and include improved night vision and visual adjustment to increases or decreases in light, moistening of skin and eyes, and possible treatment or reduction in symptoms for coronary artery disease. In addition to this stroke victims who had high levels of Vitamin A were less likely to die or suffer any permanent damage. However, on the flip side Vitamin A has been shown to increase the risk of infections such as HIV. With HIV infection Vitamin A can actually assist in virus replication.

In addition to these benefits of Vitamin A it also assists the immune system, genetic transcription, embryonic development, antioxidants, and bone metabolism. As you might have noticed Vitamin A assists in a wide range and variety of bodily functions and it is an essential vitamin to proper health and wellness.

Primary sources of Vitamin A are liver, sweet potatos, kohlrabi, kale, butter, spinach, egg, pumpkin, and generally all leafy greens. In Western countries Vitamin A is thought to be over consumed with possible health problems resulting from this overconsumption. Estimates place American intake of Vitamin A as nearly twice the recommended daily dosage. This can result in osteoporosis, hip fracture, fetal defects, and other health problems.

If you’re considering taking a Vitamin A supplement consult with your doctor first and make sure they know your diet before advising you. You could end up doing more harm to your body than help with a supplement. Always remember that a lot of vitamins and minerals can be toxic when consumed in larger amounts than is recommended and supplements can easily put you into these dose ranges if you’re already getting enough from natural sources.