Vitamin A plays an essential role in many body functions. These include immunity, reproduction, cell division, growth, and vision. You can find this nutrient in many foods, such as liver, dairy products, cantaloupe, carrots, green leafy veggies, and more. The recommended daily intake of vitamin A for men and women is 900 mcg and 700 mcg, respectively. Below are some important health benefits and risks that you should know about this vitamin.
1Vitamin A and Eyesight
Vitamin A plays an important role in preserving eyesight. It is necessary for the body to convert light into electrical signals, which are then transmitted to the brain. That’s why an early sign of vitamin A deficiency may be nyctalopia, often known as night blindness. This vitamin is the main part of rhodopsin, a pigment in the retina of the eye. Taking sufficient vitamin A can help you slow down the decline in eyesight, especially in aging people. [1]
Vitamin A and Immune System
Vitamin A is essential for natural defenses in the body. It helps the mucous barriers in the genitals, gut, lungs, and eyes prevent bacteria and infectious components from penetrating. Also, the vitamin is necessary for the production of white blood cells, which capture and eliminate bacteria or pathogens from the bloodstream. A deficiency of vitamin A would make your body more prone to infections and slow your recovery from sickness. In those areas where malaria, measles, and other infections are prevalent, preventing a deficiency of vitamin A can be effective in lowering the risk of fatality. [2]
