Vitamin A is known to promote eye health. It helps lubricate the eyes to avoid dry eyes and helps you see better at night. But of course, it doesn’t mean that your vision will be crystal clear in the dark; instead, your eyes will be able to adjust better. Although its most popular benefit is on the eyes, it does more than that, as it has several other health benefits. For example, it has antioxidant contents that aid in controlling free radicals, thus preventing cell damage. It also helps boost the immune system, plays a role in reproduction, and supports bone development.
Unfortunately, the body does not produce vitamin A on its own, so you need to get it from outside sources to receive the recommended amount. The RDA or recommended dietary allowance for adults is 900 mcg for men and 700 mcg for women. Take the right amount of vitamin A as too much of it could cause toxicity. However, not enough vitamin A could lead to vitamin A deficiency, which has the following symptoms.
Infertility
Infertility is characterized by not conceiving after at least a year of unprotected sexual intercourse. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t only affect women, but men can also have fertility problems. Various causes of infertility include hormonal and genetic disorders, medications, and trauma. Risk factors also increase its chance, and age is one of them. Fertility declines when women reach their mid-30s and 40 for men. Alcohol and tobacco use and being overweight and underweight also affect fertility.
Vitamin A deficiency could also be a culprit. Besides difficulties in conceiving, there’s also a risk of congenital disabilities or miscarriage if parents do not have enough vitamin A. As mentioned, the body does not naturally produce this vitamin, but you can get it from the foods you eat. So include vitamin A-rich foods in your diet, like green leafy vegetables, eggs, milk, red bell pepper, and tomatoes. Talk to your doctor and nutritionist to determine the amount of vitamin A you should have for your fertility concern. There are also other fertility treatments that they may recommend, including medications, therapy, artificial insemination, and surgery.
