Office of Dietary Supplements - Vitamin A and Carotene Supplement
Vitamin A describes a class of fat-soluble retinoid mainly retinol and retinyl esters.
Vitamins A and C are important components of immune functioning, cell communication, growth, and male and female reproduction. The body converts beta carotene into vitamin A, which supports cell development and differentiated cells play important roles in heart, brain and other organs. Vitamin A plays an important role in the visual process because it is essential for the function of conjunctival membranes and the cornea.
What are Vitamin A and Carotenoids?
Vitamin A is a group of fat-soluble retinoids, primarily retinol and retinyl esters. Carotenoids are plant pigments that can be converted into vitamin A in the body. Beta-carotene is a type of carotenoid that the body converts into vitamin A. This conversion is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Beta-carotene, in particular, is known for its antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Sources of Vitamin A
Vitamin A is found in two main sources: preformed vitamin A (retinol and retinyl esters) and provitamin A carotenoids. Preformed vitamin A is found in foods from animal sources, including dairy products, eggs, fish, and organ meats. Provitamin A carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin, are plant pigments found in colorful fruits and vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach. Incorporating a variety of these foods into your diet can help ensure adequate intake of vitamin A.
Tolerable upper intake levels for preformed vitamin A
The dietary guidelines on preformulated vitamin A have been set out for food and supplement consumption in the United States. High doses of vitamin A have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including morbidity and mortality. The FNB determined that the amounts of this may be linked to an increased risk of tetaogenic or gastrointestinal problems in children. These UL are only applicable to products originating from animal sources. However, many dietary supplement products (including multivitamins) lack the vitamin A that is required in both retinols and ester forms. In addition, vitamin A can contain beta-carotene.
What are the benefits of taking carotene for age related macular degeneration?
Beta-carotenes are antioxidants. Beta carotene supplementation may enhance cognitive function due to its antioxidant properties, with some studies suggesting potential long-term benefits on memory and cognitive health. It protects against free radicals that cause cellular damage. Free radical damage is carried out by oxidation. This damage can eventually cause various chronic illnesses.
Is it OK to take beta-carotene everyday?
The study says adults should take 5-10 servings of vegetables daily and drink 5 to 6 mg daily to gain at least 3 grams of beta-carotene each day from daily consumption. Dietary beta carotene is beneficial for skin health, acting as an antioxidant that may enhance the skin's defenses against UV radiation. Sweet potatoes contain about 11 mg of beta-carotene, as do sliced carrots. Juillet 2019.
Who should not take beta-carotene due to lung cancer risk?
If you smoke or are exposed to asbestos, then you should take dietary supplementation to regain the benefits of this product. However, high doses of beta-carotene supplements have been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, particularly among smokers and individuals exposed to asbestos. Foods with high levels of beta carotenes are considered safe and have a low chance of certain cancers and possibly heart attacks.
What is the difference between vitamin A and carotene that the body converts beta carotene into?
Beta-Carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, which is essential in all age groups. It’s also a powerful antioxidant which reduces cancer risks. However, studies on beta carotene vitamin show dual implications in cancer prevention and risk, with high doses potentially increasing lung cancer risk among smokers while showing no significant impact among nonsmokers. Betacarotene is an antioxidant containing precursor for vitamin A. Depending upon body requirements it is converted to vitamin A.
Vitamin A and Eye Health
Vitamin A is essential for eye health, and a deficiency in vitamin A can cause night blindness, dry eyes, and eye infections. Beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, has been shown to have a protective effect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, including those high in beta-carotene, may help reduce the risk of AMD. Ensuring sufficient intake of beta-carotene through dietary sources can support overall eye health and help maintain good vision as you age.
Vitamin A and Immune Function
Vitamin A is important for immune function, and a deficiency in vitamin A can impair the immune system. Beta-carotene has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, and may help boost the immune system. However, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between vitamin A and immune function. Including beta-carotene-rich foods in your diet can contribute to a well-functioning immune system, helping your body fend off infections and illnesses more effectively.
