Shall we address the importance of Vitamin A?
Vitamin A plays a fundamental role in maintaining eye health, strengthening the immune system, and preventing cardiovascular diseases and premature aging.
This vitamin can be found in various foods, both of animal and plant origin. Among animal-derived foods, eggs, liver, and fish oil stand out, while plant-derived foods such as pumpkin, carrot, spinach, and kale are also significant sources of this vitamin.
In addition, Vitamin A supplements are available in pharmacies or natural product stores. However, it is crucial to emphasize that supplementation should only be done under medical or nutritional guidance, as excessive doses can lead to side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
What is the best source of Vitamin A?
Vitamin A can be found in two main forms: as retinol, present in animal-derived foods such as meats and milk; and as carotenoids, pigments found in red, yellow, and orange vegetables, which are converted into Vitamin A by the body, including the well-known beta-carotene.
What are the foods rich in Vitamin A?
Among animal-derived foods, meat (especially organs like liver), butter, retinol-enriched margarine, dairy products, fish oils, milk, and eggs stand out.
Among plant-derived foods, we find green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, and broccoli, as well as orange and yellow vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and other squash varieties, as well as papaya, mango, melon, and tomato.
In conclusion, including foods rich in Vitamin A in the diet is essential to promote overall health.
Sources consulted:
- National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Article on Vitamin A and its importance in health.
2. World Health Organization (WHO) – Nutritional guidelines for adequate intake of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A.
3. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) – Dietary recommendations for a balanced diet rich in Vitamin A.
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Information on the benefits and risks of Vitamin A supplementation.