Vitamin A

Today I continue the series of posts on vitamins with the vitamin A by explaining to you which foods it is found in, what its functions are and whether or not you should take supplements.

Where to find it?

There vitamin A is found only in the animal kingdom and the foods containing the most arecod liver oil and the animal livers. Among the most commonly consumed products we can name the butter, there cream, THE cheeses and the eggs.

THE human body can also transform named substances provitamins in vitamin A. The beta-carotene is the most active of these substances. It is important to clarify that the intestinal absorption of carotenes of plant origin is regulated according to our needs to avoid any toxicity.

What are its functions?

There vitamin A is involved in triggering nerve impulses to the optic nerves and is therefore essential for vision.

It is also involved in cell differentiation and is therefore essential for the growth.
It is also important for the skin and all of the mucous membranes due to its action of stimulating cell renewal.
Finally, it contributes to the functioning of the system immune and the beta-carotene has functions antioxidants.

Should we take supplements?

The possible benefits of b-carotene supplementation remain for the time being controversial. Therefore, the safest approach is to recommend consumption ofrich foods in beta-carotene rather than supplements.

Caution for smokers regarding excess beta-carotene in the form of food supplements because it increases the effect carcinogenic tobacco!