Ingredient Library

Vitamin A

Discover why vitamin A is essential for healthy vision, immune function and maintaining healthy skin and mucous membranes.

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in vision, immune function, healthy skin and the maintenance of many tissues throughout the body. It exists in two main dietary forms: preformed vitamin A (retinol), found in animal foods, and provitamin A carotenoids, found in colourful fruits and vegetables, which the body can convert into vitamin A as needed.

Because vitamin A cannot be produced by the body, it must be obtained through the diet or nutritional supplements.

What is Vitamin A?

Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin required for many important biological processes. It contributes to the maintenance of normal vision, healthy skin, immune function and the normal function of specialised cells throughout the body.

Vitamin A Forms

Vitamin A is available in two main forms. Retinol is the active form found in animal-derived foods and supplements, while beta-carotene and other carotenoids are naturally found in colourful fruits and vegetables and can be converted into vitamin A by the body when needed.

Why Vitamin A Matters

Vitamin A contributes to the maintenance of normal vision, healthy skin and normal immune function. It also plays an important role in maintaining the normal health of mucous membranes, which line areas such as the respiratory and digestive tracts.

Immune Support

Supports the normal function of the immune system.

Skin, Hair & Nails

Supports healthy skin, hair growth and strong nails.

Antioxidant Protection

Helps protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

Healthy Inflammatory Response

Supports the body's normal inflammatory response.

What is vitamin A?

Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that contributes to normal vision, immune function and the maintenance of healthy skin and mucous membranes.

What is the difference between retinol and beta-carotene?

Retinol is the active form of vitamin A found in animal-derived foods and supplements. Beta-carotene is a naturally occurring plant pigment found in colourful fruits and vegetables that the body can convert into vitamin A as required.

What foods naturally contain vitamin A?

Preformed vitamin A is naturally found in foods such as liver, eggs and dairy products. Beta-carotene is naturally abundant in carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, pumpkin and other orange or dark green vegetables.

Why is vitamin A important for vision?

Vitamin A contributes to the maintenance of normal vision and plays an essential role in the normal function of the retina, particularly in low-light conditions.

Can you get too much vitamin A?

Yes. While vitamin A is essential, excessive intakes of preformed vitamin A over long periods are not recommended. It is important to follow the recommended serving size and seek professional advice where appropriate.