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Diet
& Nutrition Vitamin
A
What
is Vitamin A?
Vitamin A (retinol) is only found in in certain animal tissues.
Retinol can be toxic in large doses. However, carotenoids (found in fruits
and vegetables) are converted in the body into vitamin A. Unlike retinol,
carotenoids can be consumed without fear of toxicity. The most widespread
and most active form of carotenoid is beta-carotene.
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Function
- Essential for good
eyesight
- Enables tissue growth and bone
development
- Necessary for healthy mucous
membranes to protect against infection
- Essential for reproductive
system
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Signs
of deficiency
- Dry, scaly skin
- Poor vision (especially at night
times)
- Predisposition to infections
(particularly lungs, ailmentary canal and urinary tract)
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This page was last updated on 25 October 2006 15:44:40
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