Fat soluble antioxidant. As a supplement in diabetes, as many studies
have shown that there is often a deficiency in people with diabetes.
Sources
Liver and dairy products, carrots, apricots, collard greens, kale,
sweet potatoes, parsley, and spinach. Cod liver oil is also a good source.
Therapeutic dosage
5000 IU (3 mg beta-carotene) daily
In pregnancy, supplementation should be in the form of beta-carotene.
1 IU of beta-carotene = 1 IU of vitamin A, but 1 mg of beta-carotene
= 500 mcg of vitamin A.
Safety concerns
Long term use (several years) of high doses of vitamin A (above
50,000 IU) can cause liver damage, bone damage, hair loss, fatigue,
headaches and dry skin. If already have liver damage you should not
take vitamin A without the advice of your physician. In pregnancy,
supplementation should be in the form of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene
is a safer way to supplement vitamin A.
Interactions
Cholestyramine and colestipol can increase your need for vitamin A.
If you are taking Accutane, do not take vitamin A.