What Is Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for normal vision, immune function, and skin health. It exists in two main dietary forms: preformed Vitamin A (retinol), found in animal products, and provitamin A carotenoids like beta-carotene, found in colourful fruits and vegetables, which the body converts into active Vitamin A as needed. Because it's fat-soluble, the body can store Vitamin A in the liver for future use, unlike water-soluble vitamins that need constant daily replenishment. It's a foundational nutrient typically included as part of a broader daily multivitamin rather than taken in isolation.

Key Benefits

• Supports normal vision, particularly in low-light conditions
• Contributes to normal function of the immune system
• Supports the maintenance of normal skin
• Contributes to normal cell specialisation throughout the body
• Supports normal iron metabolism alongside other nutrients
• Contributes to the maintenance of normal mucous membranes

Who Needs It

Anyone looking to fill a foundational nutrient gap as part of a broader multivitamin routine, particularly those with limited intake of colourful fruits and vegetables or animal-based Vitamin A sources. It's a standard component of general wellness formulas rather than a targeted single-ingredient supplement.

Recommended Dosage / Form

Typically included as part of a daily multivitamin tablet rather than taken as a standalone supplement. Because it's fat-soluble and can be stored in the body, consistent daily multivitamin use is generally sufficient - check the specific product label for the exact amount and form (retinol vs. beta-carotene).

Science / Research Note

Vitamin A's role in vision, immune function and skin maintenance is one of the most well-established vitamin functions in nutrition science. Its fat-soluble nature means the body can store meaningful reserves in the liver, which is part of why recommended intakes account for both dietary and supplemental sources together.