Vitamin A is a nutrient important for growth, immunity, and vision. Vitamin A has antioxidant properties, which can help protect our cells from damage and lower our risk of some cancers and heart disease.
Since our bodies cannot make vitamin A, we need to get it from our food. Foods like carrots, cantaloupe, and sweet potato contain beta-carotene. Our bodies convert beta-carotene into vitamin A.
Other sources of Vitamin A include:
- Spinach
- Liver
- Dairy products (milk and cheese)
- Fish (herring and salmon)
- Eggs
It is recommended that adult men get at least 900 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin A daily. Women should get at least 700 mcg of vitamin A daily. If you think you might not be getting enough vitamin A, check with your healthcare provider.
Sources: Mayo Clinic
Written by: Priya Samuel, EFNEP Student Volunteer