A vital micronutrient during pregnancy

For many, the go-to vitamin during pregnancy is folic acid, but vitamin A is also excellent at nourishing not only the health of the developing fetus but the health of the expecting mother as well. Vitamin A promotes embryonic growth, assisting in heart, lung, kidney, eye and bone development. Vitamin A also helps new mothers by supporting postpartum tissue repair.

Builds muscles

Since vitamin A boosts the body’s ability to produce testosterone, it is an essential building block for muscle growth. Also significant is the fact that vitamin A is required for the body to be able to utilize protein. In fact, some studies indicate that a high protein diet may deplete vitamin A levels within the body, making supplementation a good option.

Supports healthy cholesterol levels

Some research indicates that vitamin A is effective in lowering cholesterol levels. While studies continue, there seems to be at least some evidence that a vitamin A supplement may support healthy cholesterol levels within the normal range.

How is Vitamin A Used?

Vitamin A is fat soluble, meaning that it can be absorbed with fats in the diet and stored inside the body’s fatty tissue. Vitamin A comes in two forms: retinol, which can be used directly by the body and beta-carotene, which needs to be converted into retinol by the body before it can be utilized. Vitamin A aids vision health, immune function, bone health and more.

Often Paired With…

Vitamin D

When paired at the right dosages vitamins A and D can work in tandem, with vitamin A boosting vitamin D metabolism.

Vitamin A Food Sources

Food sources high in active vitamin A (known as retinol) include liver, milk and milk products, egg yolks, fish and cheese. Sources of beta-carotene include yellow, red and green vegetables and fruits like carrots, tomatoes, peppers, spinach, broccoli and grapefruit, to name just a few.

Recommended Reading

8 Foods Packed with Vitamin A

https://www.swansonvitamins.com/blog/jenna/vitamin-a

Vitamin A: An Especially Important Nutrient for Mothers & Children

https://www.swansonvitamins.com/blog/chelsea/vitamin-a-for-mothers-children