Vitamin A - Retinol and Beta-Carotene

Beta-Carotene

Pro-Vitamin A

Converted to Vitamin A in gut wall

Beta-Carotene

Pro-Vitamin A

Converted to Vitamin A in gut wall

Retinol

Pure Vitamin AOnly found in animal

foods

Retinol

Pure Vitamin AOnly found in animal

foods

Vitamin A – Retinol and Beta-Carotene

Functions Regulates growth Promotes healthy

skin Maintenance of

healthy epithelial tissues

Necessary for production of Rhodopsin - pigment in retina, helps eye adapt to dim light

Effects of deficiency Restricted growth Dry mucous

membranes Xeropthalmia - dry eye

membrane/ blindness Night blindness Susceptibility to

infection

Vitamin A - Retinol and Beta-Carotene

SourcesRetinol - Cod liver oil, liver, dairy products, herring,

egg yolkBeta-Carotene Dark green leafy vegetables, broccoli, carrots, deep orange fruits and vegetables

Vitamin A - Retinol and Beta-CaroteneProperties Yellow Fat soluble Insoluble in water Can be destroyed by

oxygen, light and air Some reduction in

dehydration Powerful antioxidant

RDA

See text book pg. 34