EYE HEALTH BENEFITS
Beta-carotene is converted to Vitamin A in the body, which plays a critical role in the Visual Pathway in our retinal cells. The Visual Pathway is a series of biochemical steps that converts light energy into useful visual information relayed to our brain. Therefore Vitamin A is essential for vision.
Vitamin A deficiency can lead to night blindness (nyctalopia)
Vitamin A also has an important role in the metabolism of the cornea, and deficiency can lead to severe dry eye (xerophthalmia)
WHOLE-BODY HEALTH BENEFITS
Vitamin A may help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancers, helps the immune system, and is important for reproduction
Vitamin A also aids in the growth of tissues including skin and hair
What to Eat:
BETA-CAROTENE: eat orange coloured foods
bell peppers, carrots, squash, pumpkin, sweet potato, cantaloupe, papaya
broccoli, spinach, zucchini, and other dark, leafy green vegetables are also good sources
Warning: Excessive intake of Vitamin A can be harmful. Smokers should not take supplements containing beta-carotene or Vitamin A as this can increase the risk of lung cancer.
A healthy, balanced diet should provide adequate Vitamin A intake without supplementation.
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