VITAMIN A-OK
Just what does this valuable vit do?
SPECIAL REPORT
There are a number of studies highlighting how important vitamin A is for a range of functions in the body – but not many people know about the benefits. So what is exactly is it – and how can we make sure we get the right amount?
Also known as ‘retinol’, vitamin A helps you maintain better vision in darker environments, it helps to boost the body’s immune system (your body’s natural defence against illness and infection) and it also helps to keep skin healthy, as well as some other parts of the body, including your nose lining.
SO HOW MUCH VITAMIN A DO I NEED?
According to the National Health Service [NHS] adults aged 19-64 require 0.7mg (men) and 0.6mg (women) per day. Any excess vitamin A you take in is stored by your body for future use – meaning you don’t need to consume it every day.
BUT DOESN’T VITAMIN A ONLY COME FROM ANIMAL SOURCES?