Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough red blood cells. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body. Anemia is mainly caused by lack of iron, vitamin B-12 and folic acid, according to PubMed Health. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps maintain healthy skin, eyes and mucous membranes. Lack of vitamin A can contribute to anemia, according to MayoClinic.com.
Anemia and Vitamin A
Vitamin A is important for bone growth, cell division and cell differentiation, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow. Lack of proper bone growth due to vitamin A deficiency leads to decreased red blood cells production and anemia. Symptoms of anemia include shortness of breath, headache, fatigue, pale skin, cold hands and feet and irritability.
Sources of Vitamin A
The daily recommended dietary intake of vitamin A is 900 mcg in males and 700mcg in females, according to Medline Plus. Pregnant women and lactating women require higher amounts of vitamin A. The best way to reach the daily requirement of vitamin A is to eat a balanced diet rich in vitamin A foods. Natural sources of vitamin A includes eggs, meat, milk, fish, cheese, cod liver oil, halibut fish oil, carrots, squash, pumpkin, apricots and green leafy vegetables.
Vitamin A Supplements
Vitamin A supplements are available in multivitamins in forms of soft gels, tablets, capsules and liquids to be taken orally, according to MayoClinic.com. Vitamin A injections are also available to treat severe vitamin A deficiency in patients with gastrointestinal disorders that hinder absorption of the vitamin. Most adult multivitamins contain at least 5,000 IU of vitamin A. Patients with anemia should consult with a doctor about taking multivitamins to prevent anemia.
Side Effects of Vitamin A Supplements
Common side effects of vitamin A supplements include yellow-orange skin color, vision problems, acne, dry eyes, frequent infections and stunted growth in children. Large doses of vitamin A can cause liver damage, osteoporosis, hair loss and birth defects. Patients taking vitamin A supplements or using vitamin A topical products containing vitamin A derivatives such as retinol should use effective birth control methods.
Member Comments