VITAMINS A

VITAMINS

  Vitamins are chemical compounds that the human body needs in small amounts. Vitamins make up one of the major groups of nutrients (food substances necessary for growth and health). Vitamins regulate chemical reactions by which the body converts foods into energy and living tissues. The continued lack of one vitamin may result in a vitamin deficiency disease. Therefore, vitamins must be supplied in a person's daily diet. Here is a brief description about the functions of all important vitamins, the diseases caused due to their sources.

VITAMIN  A

Vitamin A is essential for the development of babies before birth and the growth of children. It is especially needed for the growth of bones and teeth. Vitamin A keeps the skin healthy and helps to produce mucous secretions that build resistance to infection. Vitamin A also forms part of the two pigments that help the eyes to function normally in light that varies in intensity.

       Deficiency of vitamin A causes poor growth. rough and dry skin. People who do not get enough vitamin A may develop a condition called xerophthalmia, in which the surface of the eye becomes dry and is likely to develop infection. Night blindness is an earl symptom of a deficiency of vitamin A.

        Eggs, butter, milk, carrot, papaya, mango, liver, fish liver oil, sweet potatoes, green and yellow vegetables are good sources of vitamin A.