Vitamin A (Retinol) (Genova)

Too much vitamin A can be dangerous, particularly during pregnancy. If your levels are too high, the recommended intake range will be zero. Betacarotene, which also protects tissue, is converted by your body to vitamin A on an as-needed basis. Supplementation with beta-carotene is a safer alternative than vitamin A.

- Alpha-tocopherol (body's main form of vitamin E) functions as an antioxidant, regulates cell signaling, influences immune function and inhibits coagulation.

- Deficiency may occur with malabsorption, cholestyramine, colestipol, isoniazid, orlistat, olestra and certain anti-convulsants (e.g., phenobarbital, phenytoin).

- Deficiency may result in peripheral neuropathy, ataxia, muscle weakness, retinopathy, and increased risk of CVD, prostate cancer and cataracts.

- Food sources include oils (olive, soy, corn, canola, safflower, sunflower), eggs, nuts, seeds, spinach, carrots, avocado, dark leafy greens and wheat germ.

Vitamin A is an antioxidant in the membranes of your cells where it serves a protective function. Every day you lose some vitamin A, because it is used in the replacement of old tissues.