Vitamin A

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    Last Updated: January 8, 2024

    Vitamin A describes a group of metabolites involved in cell and tissue growth, and several bodily functions, including vision, bone metabolism, and immune function. Vitamin A metabolites include preformed vitamin A — retinols, retinals, retinyl esters, and retinoic acids — and precursors (i.e., provitamin A molecules) like beta-carotene, which can be converted by the body into the other forms of vitamin A.

    Overview

    Dosage information

    Recommended intake is similar between males and females, except during pregnancy and lactation when vitamin A requirements are elevated. The recommended dietary allowances (RDA) are:[1][2]

    AgesRecommended daily intake
    Birth to 6 months400 micrograms (mcg, or µg)
    Infants 7–12 months500 mcg
    Children 1–3 years300 mcg
    Children 4–8 years400 mcg
    Children 9–13 years600 mcg
    Teen males 14–18 years900 mcg
    Teen females 14–18 years700 mcg
    Teen females, pregnant750 mcg
    Teen females, breastfeeding1,200 mcg
    Adult males900 mcg
    Adult females700 mcg
    Adult females, pregnant770 mcg
    Adult females, breastfeeding1,300 mcg

    Due to potential toxicity, the upper limit of total daily intake of preformed vitamin A (from food, beverages, and supplements combined) is as follows:[1][2]

    AgesUpper limit of daily intake
    Birth to 12 months600 mcg
    Children 1–3 years600 mcg
    Children 4–8 years900 mcg
    Children 9–13 years1,700 mcg
    Teens 14–18 years2,800 mcg
    Adults 19 years and older3,000 mcg

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