How Do I Get Vitamin A?

You can get vitamin A through two main sources: preformed vitamin A and provitamin A carotenoids.

Sources of Vitamin A

Here's a breakdown of how you can incorporate vitamin A into your diet:

Preformed Vitamin A

Preformed vitamin A is readily usable by your body and is found in animal-based foods. These include:

• Fish: Various types of fish contain preformed vitamin A.
• Organ Meats: Liver is particularly rich in preformed vitamin A.
• Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, and other dairy products contain preformed vitamin A.
• Eggs: Egg yolks are a good source of preformed vitamin A.

Provitamin A Carotenoids

Provitamin A carotenoids, mainly beta-carotene, are converted into vitamin A by your body. They are primarily found in plant-based foods:

• Fruits: Many fruits contain beta-carotene.
• Vegetables: Colorful vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach are excellent sources of beta-carotene.
• Other plant-based products: Various plant-based sources provide provitamin A.

Ways to Increase Vitamin A Intake

Here are some practical ways to increase your vitamin A intake:

• Eat a Variety of Foods: Consume a balanced diet that includes both animal-based and plant-based sources.
• Include Colorful Vegetables: Make it a point to add colorful vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and leafy greens to your meals.
• Incorporate Liver: While it may not be everyone’s favorite, liver is one of the richest sources of preformed vitamin A, so adding it occasionally can be beneficial.
• Use Dietary Supplements: If your diet is limited, consider beta-carotene supplements to support your vitamin A intake.
  
  

Summary Table of Vitamin A Sources

By incorporating these sources into your diet, you can ensure you get enough vitamin A to support your health.