Focus On Vitamins!
Vitamin “A”
What is it?
Vitamin A can also be known as Retinol. Carotene (Beta~Carotene) is turned into Vitamin A by the body. Vitamin A is a Fat Soluble Vitamin which means that in order for it to be any good to us, we need to include Healthy fats in our diets so that it can be absorbed properly. (Coconut Oil, avocados, GrapeSeed Oil, etc)
How does it Help us & Why do we Need it?
In the Body, Vitamin A is responsible (indirectly & directly) for the function of every organ. You read right EVERY organ! It’s needed for their growth & development as well as the repairing of cells (teeth, bones & collagen) & tissue maintenance. It’s also very important in Vision Function & can help prevent Night Blindness. Because it is so vital in Cell growth, development & maintenance, it’s even more vital in Pregnancy. Vitamin A is an essential role taker during Infections, in fact it helps protect your body against invaders. It plays important antiviral activities as well as having the ability to neutralize free radical damage in your body. Vitamin A is Essential for Clear Vision, Soft Smooth Skin, Protection against Infections & a Stronger Immunity, Strong Teeth & Enamel & Strong, Silky Hair.
What are the Best Vegan Sources?
*Vitamin A mostly comes from Animal Products, but Plants provide us with Beta Carotene which the body turns into Vitamin A
Raw Carrots, Squash, Kale, Raw Mangoes, Cantaloupe, Pumpkin, Spinach, Apricots, Broccoli, Sweet Potatoes, & Fortified Dairy substitutes.
*(remember, by eating enough foods with essential Vitamin & Minerals you can never over~dose)!
Signs of Deficiency:
Night Blindness, thick dry skin prone to infection, growth retardation, diarrhea, impaired hearing, taste & smell, improper tooth formation & gum disease. It can also contribute to lower thyroid activity, lowered immune, increase in cancer growth or hearth disease. (old age, pancreatitis, celiac & cystic fibrosis sufferers are at risk for deficiency, alcoholics will most likely be deficient as well)
Signs of Toxicity:
Toxicity is usually related to improper Supplement usage, & these can include: headaches, bone & joint pain, dry itchy skin, liver damage & birth deformities. A slight orange colouring of the feet & palms may be noticeable as well.
Complementary & Incompatible Pairing’s:
Vitamin A absorption is reduced with used along with Mineral Oil Laxatives & Alcohol. Supplements should not be taken in conjunction with Vitamin~A derived acne drugs or Broad Spectrum Anti~Biotics.
Risks:
Increase in Lung Cancer Risks have been noted in smokers & ex~smokers using Beta~Carotene Supplements.
Here’s to you being You.Naturally.
