(also referred to as...)
Beta-Carotene, Carotenoids, Provitamin A, Retinal, Retinol, Retinoic Acid, Retinoids
Description
Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin found in a variety of foods and stored in the liver. This vitamin plays an important role in maintaining a healthy retina of the eye. It also help prevent night blindness (inability of the eyes to adjust to light changes) and a variety of other eye problems.
Vitamin A enhances the immune system and protects the body from infection and is required for the proper formation of bones and teeth. Protein cannot be absorbed by the body without this vitamin. It offers protection against cancer and pollution and is necessary for a healthy digestive tract. Vitamin A is also important for healthy skin, hair, and gums.
Vitamin A, also called retinol, is found only in foods derived from animals. Carotenoids, or provitamin A, are compounds found in both plant and animal derived foods and act as precursors to vitamin A. They function as antioxidants in the body, protecting cells and organs from oxidative/free radical damage. Beta-carotene is also a vitamin A precursor found in plants.
Three different forms of vitamin A are active in the body: retinal, retinol, and retinoic acid. Together, the compounds are known as retinoids. Cells are able to convert retinal and retinol to the other active forms as needed.
