Vitamin AVitamin A helps cells reproduce normally—a process
called differentiation. Cells that have not
properly differentiated are more likely to undergo
precancerous changes. Vitamin A, by maintaining
healthy cell membranes, helps prevent invasion by
disease-causing micro-organisms. Vitamin A also
stimulates immunity and is needed for formation of
bone, protein, and growth hormone. Beta-carotene,
a substance from plants that the body can convert
into vitamin A, also acts as an antioxidant and
immune system booster. Other members of the
antioxidant carotene family include cryptoxanthin,
alpha-carotene, zeaxanthin, lutein, and lycopene,
but most of them do not convert to significant
amounts of vitamin A. Where are they found? Dark
green and orange-yellow vegetables are good
sources of beta-carotene. Liver, dairy, and cod
liver oil provide vitamin A. Vitamin A can also be
found in vegetarian supplements.
- In what conditions might vitamin A or
beta-carotene be supportive?
- abnormal Pap smear
- acne
- alcohol withdrawal support
- cataract
- chemotherapy support c
- onjunctivitis/blepharitis
- Crohn’s disease
- HIV support
- immune function infection
- macular degeneration
- measles
- menorrhagia (heavy menstruation)
- minor injuries
- night blindness
- peptic ulcer
- photosensitivity
- premenstrual syndrome
- recurrent ear infections
- retinopathy
- urinary tract
- infection vaginitis
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