VITAMIN A

Function:

Vitamin A can promote normal proliferation and differentiation of epithelial cells, promote normal growth of epithelial cells, maintain the health of endothelial cells in eye blood vessels, and ensure normal skin growth on the surface of the body.

1）Visual function: Vitamin A is the core component of the retinal photosensitive substance rhodopsin, which helps us see objects clearly in low light environments and maintain normal night vision ability.

2）Skin and mucous membrane health: Maintaining the intact morphology and normal function of epithelial cells, promoting skin repair and regeneration, and maintaining the health of skin and mucous membranes.

3）The immune system: Vitamin A can enhance the function of immune cells, promote the production of antibodies or lymphokines, thereby helping the body resist infections.

4）Antioxidant effect: As a potent antioxidant, vitamin A can eliminate free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.

Symptoms of deficiency

1）Visual problems: Night blindness are the most common symptoms of vitamin A deficiency. Patients experience significant visual impairment in low light environments, making it difficult to see objects clearly. As the condition worsens, dry eye syndrome may also occur, manifested as symptoms such as dryness, pain, photophobia, and even blindness. After the sun sets, going up and down stairs in dimly lit corridors is a good way to check the nutritional status of vitamin A. Some people have sharp eyes and agile movements; Some people have unclear vision, feel and be cautious.

2）Skin problems: Skin may cause dryness, roughness, flaking, and even keratinization of hair follicles. The scalp and various parts of the body's skin (such as the heels) may become dry, peeling, and flaky.

3）The immunity is reduced, the wound is vulnerable to infectious diseases such as colds and pneumonia, and the wound healing is slow. Oral inflammation, mouth sores, and respiratory infections are all possible. In summary, vitamin A can promote the normal growth of all our skin and epithelial cells. So if infected individuals lack various types of dermatitis and epithelial tissues, it is possible to occur.

There are two sources of vitamin A

One from animal products and the other from plant products. In contrast, vitamin A in animal products is more easily absorbed. The main sources of vitamin A include animal liver, some fish, dairy products, carrots, broccoli, pumpkin, and cantaloupe.