he Excessive intake of vitamin A Preform (retinol) may cause cause serious damage to the body. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) warns that more than 3,000 micrograms daily can cause harmful effects in adults. of Health authorities recommend maintaining a balanced intake Avoid self-medicating with vitamin supplements.
The NIH explains that when ingested: High dose preformed vitamin A These substances, found in supplements, medicines, or foods of animal origin, can cause severe headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, nausea, and loss of coordination. In extreme circumstances, an overdose can lead to coma and even death.
Overdose during pregnancy is especially dangerous: Can cause malformations in the baby, including changes in the eyes, skull, lungs, and heart.
The organization clarifies: Toxicity is not associated with plant-derived carotenoidscompounds such as beta-carotene, which are gradually converted to vitamin A in the body. Excessive intake can cause a yellowish tint to the skin, but the effects are harmless and reversible.
of Recommended maximum limit The NIH considers vitamin A obtained from foods, beverages, and supplements. During the first months of life, the need for: Infants up to 6 months of age require 400 micrograms of retinol active equivalent (mcg RAE) dailyand in that 7 months and 12 monthsthe numbers rise to 500mcg RAE.
Needs increase during pregnancy 770mcg daily RAEand during the lactation period they reach 1300mcg RAEbecause the body’s nutritional needs increase.
These numbers do not apply to people treated with vitamin A. There are no established limits for beta-carotene or other plant-based carotenoids..
Vitamin A exists in two main forms in foods. Preformed forms are found in foods of animal origin, such as liver, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
of Provitamin A carotenoidsHowever, they are found in green, orange, and yellow vegetables such as spinach, carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, mango, and peaches. The body gradually converts these last pigments into nutrients, thus avoiding the risk of poisoning.
According to the NIH: vitamin A deficiency Although rare in the United States, it still occurs in countries where child malnutrition is severe.
The groups most likely to suffer from deficiencies are premature babies, pregnant women, and breastfeeding women. person suffering cystic fibrosis, celiac disease Either crohn’s diseaseThis is because these disorders make it difficult to absorb fats and nutrients.
Taking vitamin A supplements May affect how certain treatments work. For example, orlistat, which is prescribed for weight management, reduces intestinal absorption of this vitamin, making it less effective.
Similarly, other drugs based on vitamin A derivatives, such as acitretin, which is used for psoriasis, and bexarotene, which is indicated for cutaneous lymphoma, can lead to excessively elevated blood levels when combined with supplements. Therefore, the NIH recommends that you consult your doctor or pharmacist before adding any vitamin products, especially if you are following another medical plan.
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