A sufficient level of vitamin A is essential for many aspects of health, but too much can cause significant damage. Beta-carotene was thought to be a safer form of the vitamin. However, new research shows that taking too much beta-carotene carries significant risks. New research suggests that there could be health hazards associated with consuming… [Continue Reading]
Active Form of Vitamin A May Fight Early-Stage Breast Cancer
The active form of vitamin A may be effective in treating early-stage breast cancer, researchers report. Bright orange vegetables are rich in pro-vitamin A, which is turned into the active form, called retinoic acid, by our bodies. Already used as a treatment for other types of cancer, the work suggests that vitamin A-derived compounds could… [Continue Reading]
Vitamin A is Essential for Immune System Function
Vitamin A is found in bright yellow, orange and red vegetables, and plays a key role in many of our bodies functions, including vision and the immune system. New research describes exactly how vitamin A deficiency and overdose can interfere with immunity, highlighting our body’s need for just the right levels of this key nutrient…. [Continue Reading]
Orange Sweet Potatoes Best as Source of Vitamin A
Sweet potatoes come in multiple colors, but nutritionists recommend loading up on the orange variety as a good source of vitamin A. Increasing orange sweet potato intake could dramatically help vitamin A deficiency. Although all varieties of sweet potatoes are nutritious, those that are orange may be the best source for vitamin A. An article… [Continue Reading]
Longer Life Linked to High Alpha-carotene Levels
Above average levels of alpha-carotene in the blood are associated with living longer, according to a new study published in the journal Archives of Internal Medicine. Individuals with higher levels of this nutrient in the blood had a significantly reduced long-term risk of death from cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other causes. Alpha-carotene acts as an… [Continue Reading]
Vitamin A Information
What is Vitamin A? What foods provide vitamin A? What are recommended intakes of vitamin A? When can vitamin A deficiency occur? Who may need extra vitamin A to prevent a deficiency? What are some current issues and controversies about vitamin A? What are the health risks of too much vitamin A? What are the… [Continue Reading]
Nature Made Vitamin A
Solgar Dry Vitamin A
Protect cells against damaging free radicals with this fat-soluble antioxidant. Vitamin A helps maintain the eyes, skin, and a healthy immune system. This product contains Vitamin A (retinol form) in excess of 10,000 IU per serving which is known to cause birth defects. This product should not be taken if you are pregnant/lactating or likely… [Continue Reading]
Diet Low in Vitamins A and C Associated With Increased Risk of Asthma
In a review of 40 studies researchers have found that a diet low in vitamins A and C is associated with an increased risk of developing asthma. Lead researcher Dr. Jo Leonardi-Bee says “the study findings indicate that low levels of vitamin C intake, and to a lesser extent, vitamin A are consistently associated with… [Continue Reading]
The Health Benefits of Carrots
The cultivated carrot as we know it today is a far cry from the wild carrot found growing about 5,000 years ago in the area now known as Afghanistan. These wild varieties were purple or black, and had a tough, fibrous texture, and carrots only became orange in the 1500′s when patriotic Dutch growers developed… [Continue Reading]