Vitamin A

What is Vitamin A?

Vitamins are nutrients that are crucial for the health and development of a person. Vitamin A particularly, is a fat soluble micronutrient that helps with a plethora of bodily functions like vision, immunity and growth. It is also known as retinol and comes in two primary forms; retinoids which are found in animal products and carotenoids which are found in plant-based foods.

Why does your child need Vitamin A?

It is essential for children to have a balanced nutrition especially in their developmental years. Vitamin A is utilized in maintaining good vision and prevents conditions like dry eyes and night blindness. It also promotes healthy skin, bones and tissue development in growing children because it is responsible for cell growth and differentiation. Vitamin A also supports the immune system and helps to fight common illnesses and infections effectively. Needless to say, it plays an important part in maintaining health and ensuring the proper development of a child.

What are the sources of Vitamin A?

Vitamin A has both animal and plant based sources to choose from. Ideally, a child should receive a good combination from both sources which the body can then convert into Vitamin A as needed There is an option to fit every dietary need. It is found in:

• Eggs
• Dairy products like: cheese and milk
• Fish liver oil
• Fruits and vegetables like: carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, apricots, mangoes, and papayas

How much Vitamin A does your child need?

The recommended intake of Vitamin A varies depending on age. According to the Institute of Medicine:

• Infants aged 0-6 months should consume 400 micrograms (mcg) per day
• Infants aged 7-12 months should consume 500 mcg per day
• Children aged 1-3 years, the recommended intake is 300 mcg per Day
• For children aged 4-8 years, it is 400 mcg per day
• For 9-13 year olds, 600 mcg per day is recommended.
• After 13 years of age, the recommended quantity is different for male and female children.

What should I know as a parent regarding Vitamin A?

• As a parent, it is highly important to ensure that your child receives an adequate intake of nutrients through a balanced diet.
• It is necessary to keep in mind that excessive intake of Vitamin A should also be avoided, as it can lead to toxicity.
• Incorporating a variety of foods in your child’s meals that will help meet their needs as a growing individual doesn’t have to be boring. Instead, the focus should be on providing a diverse diet that includes a range of nutrient-rich foods.
• You should be aware that the national immunization schedule of some countries including India includes giving children megadoses of Vitamin A along with the measles vaccine at 9 months followed by doses every 6 months to avoid a deficiency.