According to the National Institutes of Health, vitamin A may be effective in reducing the risk of breast and lung cancer. However, it does not indicate that vitamin A is effective in treating these types of cancer. If breast or lung cancer is prevalent in your family, you can increase your intake of vitamin A. Remember to check with your physician before taking any vitamins or supplements.
Step 1
Consume 3,000 International Units (IU) of vitamin A if you are a male teen or adult age 14 and older. This is the minimum amount and should be consumed on a daily basis in order to be effective in reducing the risk of these cancers.
Step 2
Consume 2,310 IU of vitamin A if you are a female teen or adult age 14 and older. Note that the recommended intakes of vitamin A are different for men and women. Work closely with your physician, as he may recommend a higher or lower dose of vitamin A.
Step 3
Take a multivitamin that contains vitamin A or a vitamin A supplement. These vitamins can be purchased without a prescription at most local pharmacies. Check with your doctor before you purchase or take these supplements.
Step 4
Eat foods rich in vitamin A. Carrot juice, boiled carrots and spinach all contain increased amounts of vitamin A. For example, a 1/2 cup serving of carrot juice contains more than 22,000 IU of vitamin A; a 1/2 cup serving of boiled carrots has over 13,000 IU; and a 1/2-cup serving of boiled spinach contains over 11,000 IU.
Step 5
Eat a balanced diet that is composed of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and dairy, recommends the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In addition to consuming vitamin A, eating a healthy diet helps your body to better absorb the vitamin A you consume. Work with your physician or a nutrition professional to determine the appropriate amounts for these foods or your target caloric intake. In addition to eating these food types, you should drink at least 64 oz. of water to maintain adequate hydration.
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