Introduction
Vitamin A is an essential vitamin that is divided into two major types, carotenoids and retinoids. Carotenoids are found in plants based foods, especially those with bright orange or yellow colors (such as carrots). Retinoids are found mostly in animal food sources such as eggs and dairy products. Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin, meaning that it needs lipids to be absorbed into the tissues of the body.
Vision
One of the most well known benefits that vitamin A has on the body is its contribution to vision health; this vitamin helps light get converted into a nerve signal that can be interpreted into an image in the retina. This process is especially important regarding night vision, as there is less light available for the conversion to take place.
Cell Growth
Vitamin A is also essential for cell growth, especially in the skin. Each skin cell has retinoid receptors. These receptors use retinoid for a host of functions including cell differentiation, cell growth, collagen and elastin upkeep, and the production of sebum. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, vitamin A also helps the skin act as a defense against invading bacteria and viruses.
Immune Function
According to the National Institute of Health, vitamin A also helps in the functioning of the immune system. Vitamin A is an essential ingredient in the production of white blood cells, which help fend off invaders, such as viruses and bacteria, that enter the body. Vitamin A also assists the lymphocytes in your body in their fight against foreign invaders.
Surface Linings
Vitamin A not only helps the skin protect the body from external threats; it also helps strengthen the internal linings of the eyes, respiratory tract, digestive system and urinary tract. These linings can breakdown with age, allowing harmful bacteria to enter and cause an infection. Vitamin A works to keep the cells of the lining strong and healthy.
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