We usually associate vitamin A with carrots and vision, but this vitamin is very important for the rest of the body's organs and functions.

What are the most prominent signs and symptoms of deficiency of this vital element?

And where do we find it?

Vitamin A is not a single substance, but rather a whole group of so-called "retinoids", which are fat-soluble and perform many vital functions in the human body, which is why a deficiency of this vitamin can lead to serious consequences, As quoted by Deutsche Welle.

These are the main symptoms of vitamin A deficiency:

1- night blindness

Vitamin A is an important component of the visual pigment in the retina, and its deficiency leads to poor vision in dusk and darkness, and this is a warning sign of a deficiency of this vitamin or "beta-carotene", which is converted into vitamin A in the body.

2- dry skin

Like the eyes, other tissues can dry out if we don't get enough beta-carotene, or if we're deficient in vitamin A due to conditions like cirrhosis, celiac disease or chronic diarrhea.

This can affect the skin;

Hence, dry skin is an important warning sign that requires checking blood and liver values.

3- susceptibility to disease

Vitamin A also plays an important role in our immune system in what is called retinoic acid, as it regulates the function of T cells that recognize foreign bodies and B cells that produce our own antibodies.

Moreover, vitamin A is important for mucous membranes;

Thus, it helps protect against infections, so if you get sick easily, it may be a sign of a deficiency of this vitamin.


4- Impaired fertility

Vitamin A deficiency can actually affect sperm production in men, as the vitamin is essential for the function of the gonads.

5- Fatigue and lack of appetite

These common symptoms can occur with many nutrient deficiencies, which is why fatigue or anorexia alone does not allow a diagnosis of vitamin A deficiency.

That's why it's very important to see your doctor if you're chronically tired, even though you're getting enough sleep, and these symptoms can also indicate an omega-3 or vitamin B12 deficiency.


Where do you get vitamin A?

Vitamin A supplements should not be taken until after consulting a specialist, as they may have harm.

For smokers, taking vitamin A supplements increases the risk of lung cancer, according to studies, and for this reason, nutritional supplements should only be taken under medical supervision and direction.

Where do we find vitamin A?

In addition to carrots, plants and animal products contain vitamin A or beta-carotene, such as:

  • sweet potato

  • gourd

  • tomato

  • Green Beans

  • broccoli

  • spinach

  • eggs

  • liver