A Vitamin and Carotenoids
30-Jul-08
Vitamin A is the first vitamin discovered. This is a fat-soluble vitamin.
Some of the benefits of vitamin A:
- It helps maintain our vision. It especially affects our ability to see in the dark. Vitamin A has metabolites that help our eyes to adjust themselves from bright light to dim light or darkness.
- It helps the body to maintain healthy skin, hair, teeth and bones.
- It is necessary for the proper functioning of the reproductive system.
- It promotes a healthy immune system.
- It is considered an essential nutrient for the overall growth and development of the body.
- It is known to have antioxidant properties that help to counterbalance free radicals in the body. Free radicals can cause tissue and cellular damage.
Some tests like Symptomatology Analysis can help determine the vitamin A deficiency in the body.
One should use caution not to take an overdose of vitamin A, neither from the food nor from the supplements, because the excess of vitamin A is not excreted from the body - it is stored in the fat tissues. Excess amount stored in the liver can lead to health problems.
Carotenoids are chemicals with nutritive properties and are commonly known as the red, yellow and orange pigments in fruits and vegetables. They are fat-soluble like vitamin A. Carotenoids are also important anti-oxidants. Some examples of carotenoids are beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Beta-carotene can be converted into vitamin A when the body needs it. Unlike vitamin A it is not toxic in excess.
However beta-carotene is not recommended for smokers for the adverse reactions it might have according to recent clinical trials. It has also shown an adverse reaction in people with excessive alcohol consumption.
Sufficient intake of carotenoids can help prevent cell, tissue and even genetic damage. This in turn enables the body to enhance the immune system and reduces the risk of cancer and heart diseases.
Lianna Aghabekyan (Lynn Alex) is a Certified Nutritional Consultant, Weight-Loss and Anti-Aging Consultant, Yoga Teacher and Life-Skills Coach. Check out her coaching programs to reach your nutrition and weight loss goals and realize your full potential. Subscribe to the e-zine “Be Empowered” and receive a free report. Visit the websites http://www.nutrifitpower.com and http://www.pathstopower.net for more details.
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