Vitamin A Deficiency and Its Adverse Health Impacts

Vitamin A is a group of complex organic chemical compounds that belong to the retinoid family. Among the numerous substances that make it up, the most important ones are retinol and its derivatives. Some carotenoids, such as β-carotene, may be a source of Vitamin A. β-Carotene is the most potent precursor to vitamin A. Once provided through diet, it is converted into retinol. In order to determine the amount of vitamin A present in consumed food, it is necessary not only to take into account the amount of retinol but also the amount of vitamin resulting from the consumed β-carotene. This substance is mainly found in plant-based foods in the form of provitamin A, primarily β-carotene. Rich sources include vegetables such as carrots, pumpkins, celery, spinach, cucumber, broccoli, and fruits (apricots, peaches). If we consume foods containing β-carotene, we should remember that vitamin A is fat-soluble, so it is important to consume these foods with fats or products that contain them. Retinol and its derivatives are also found in animal products such as liver, eggs, ripening cheese, butter, and some sea fish.

Vitamin A serves as a daily dietary supplement. It strengthens the robustness of bones and teeth. As for the previously mentioned retinol, it affects skin, nails, and hair, hence it is frequently present in cosmetic products.

The properties of Vitamin A are antioxidative and regenerative. These include: – control of visual organ function and development of bones and teeth, – reinforcement of skin and its products (epidermis, hair, nails), – proper functioning of the immune system, – participation in protein metabolism, – support for RNA production, – application in cancer prevention, – protection of the respiratory epithelium from microbes.

In the local treatment of vitamin A, retinoic acid in the form of a facial cream or balm is used in concentrations of 0.01 to 0.10%. Diseases associated with vitamin A deficiency include: psoriasis, dry skin, impaired vision (which can lead to night blindness), alopecia areata, diarrhea, acne, and general poor health. Other signs of deficiency may include infections and growth disorders in young organisms.