Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in various physiological functions within the body. It’s essential for maintaining healthy vision, promoting proper immune function, and supporting growth and development. Here are some key points about vitamin A:

• Vision:

  Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining good vision, particularly in low-light conditions. It is a component of the pigment rhodopsin, which is found in the retina and helps with night vision. A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to night blindness and other vision problems.

• Immune System:

  Vitamin A supports the immune system by helping maintain the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes, which act as barriers against infections. It also plays a role in the production and differentiation of immune cells.

• Cell Differentiation and Growth:

  Vitamin A is involved in the process of cell differentiation, where stem cells become specialized cells with specific functions. This process is essential for normal growth, development, and tissue repair.

• Skin Health:

  Vitamin A is commonly used in topical treatments for skin conditions because it promotes healthy skin by regulating cell production and turnover. Retinoids, derivatives of vitamin A, are often used to treat acne and other skin disorders.

• Reproductive Health:

  Vitamin A is important for reproduction and the development of a healthy embryo. It’s necessary for the proper development of the fetus’s heart, lungs, kidneys, eyes, and other organs.

• Food Sources:

  There are two main types of vitamin A in the diet: preformed vitamin A (retinoids) found in animal products like liver, dairy, and eggs, and provitamin A (carotenoids) found in colorful fruits and vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and kale.

• Deficiency and Toxicity:

  Vitamin A deficiency can lead to a range of health issues, including impaired vision, weakened immunity, and growth problems. On the other hand, excessive vitamin A intake, usually from supplements, can lead to toxicity, causing symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and even more severe health issues.

• Vitamin A and Pregnancy:

  While vitamin A is essential for fetal development, excessive vitamin A intake during pregnancy can be harmful to the developing fetus. Pregnant individuals should follow recommended guidelines and consult healthcare professionals if taking vitamin A supplements.

  It is recommended to check serum carotenoids to get a complete picture of Vitamin A status.

• Sample requirement: 1mL frozen serum.