What is Vitamin A & Why Do We Need It?

If you’ve been into skincare lately, you’ve probably heard of retinol. But did you know that retinol is actually a form of Vitamin A? And that it’s an essential nutrient supporting not only healthy skin but a strong immune system and good vision? Here’s everything you need to know to keep your vitamin A levels in check.

What Is the Difference Between Retinol and Vitamin A?

Retinol and vitamin A are often used interchangeably, but there’s a slight difference. Vitamin A is actually a term for a group of fat-soluble compounds that come in two main forms: retinoids (such as retinol) and carotenoids (such as beta-carotene).

• Retinol is the active form of vitamin A, which your body can use directly. It’s primarily found in animal products like meat and dairy.
• On the other hand, carotenoids are plant-based precursors to Vitamin A, which your body needs to convert into retinol before it can use them. You’ll find these in colourful fruits and vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes.

Both forms are vital for your health and should be included in a balanced diet. Retinol is often used in skincare products because it’s particularly effective at supporting skin regeneration and collagen production.

Why Is Vitamin A, or Retinol, Important?

Vitamin A, whether in its precursor form as carotenoids or in its active form as retinol, plays a crucial role in many important bodily functions. It is essential for healthy vision, as it is involved in the formation of rhodopsin, a protein in the eyes that allows us to see in low light. Additionally, vitamin A supports the immune system by promoting the production and function of white blood cells, which are vital for fighting infections. Vitamin A also contributes to skin health by stimulating cell regeneration, regulating oil production, and protecting the skin from free radicals. Moreover, retinol is important for growth processes in the body, including the development and maintenance of bones and teeth. Furthermore, vitamin A acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress and thereby helping to prevent ageing and disease.

In short, vitamin A is an essential nutrient that ensures our bodies function at their best.

Which Foods Contain Vitamin A?

Vitamin A and the Skin

Vitamin A has significant effects on the health and function of your skin. It’s a true skin ally. It helps your skin regenerate by removing dead cells and creating new ones. It also regulates oil production, which is particularly beneficial for blemish-prone skin. Thanks to its antioxidant properties, Vitamin A protects your skin cells (and all cells in your body) from oxidative stress, meaning free radicals that could damage them. And the best part: Vitamin A boosts collagen production, giving your skin elasticity and firmness. In short, vitamin A is key to healthy, glowing skin.

What Are the Signs of a Vitamin A Deficiency?

A deficiency in vitamin A can manifest in several ways. These include difficulty seeing in low light (night blindness), dry eyes, increased susceptibility to infections, and skin problems. Given that vitamin A supports so many vital functions in the body, it’s important to ensure your diet isn’t too one-sided.

How Much Vitamin A Do You Need Daily?

The daily requirement for vitamin A varies depending on age and gender. Children and adolescents up to 13 years should consume between 300 and 600 μg retinol activity equivalents (RAE). For male adolescents between 13 and 19 years, the recommendation is 800 to 950 μg, and for females, it’s 700 to 800 μg. Adult men up to 65 years need around 850 μg, with a slight decrease to 800 μg for older men, while women should consume 700 μg. Pregnant women require 800 μg, and breastfeeding mothers need as much as 1300 μg.

Good to Know: Retinol activity equivalent (RAE) is a unit of measurement that accounts for the fact that the body absorbs and converts different forms of vitamin A at varying rates. 1 µg RAE equals 1 µg retinol or 12 µg β-carotene.

Can High Doses of Vitamin A Be Harmful?

Yes, they can. Overdosing on vitamin A can lead to acute hypervitaminosis A, which may cause symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and headaches. Long-term excessive intake can also result in chronic hypervitaminosis A. So, it’s best not to overdo it.