Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that has many different functions. First, it is related to the maintenance of normal vision in dim light and the prevention of night blindness. It also helps in the growth and formation of body cells, making it essential for body growth. It is especially needed for bone growth. If the intake is not sufficient, bones will stop growing before the soft tissues are fully mature. Vitamin A is also needed for normal tooth development, because the enamel-forming cells are affected by a lack of vitamin A. Like the carotenoids, vitamin A is also important for the maintenance of healthy epithelial cells. There are two kinds of epithelial tissue: those that cover the outer surfaces of the body - the resistant, protective skin (epidermis) and those that line all the mucus membranes. Without vitamin A, the epithelial cells become dry and flat and gradually harden to form scales that shed. Vitamin A is also important to the health of the membranes lining the stomach, intestinal wall, bladder and urinary tract and for the health of the sex glands and uterus. Lastly, vitamin A works better where there are sufficient levels of zinc and adequate protein intake in the diet. Although vitamin A can be manufactured in the body from carotenoids, there are some foods that provide this nutrient in its active form. These include kidney, liver, butter and whole milk. Solgar supplies several different vitamin A supplement products such as dry form vitamin A, as well as the combined version (from cod liver oil) which also includes vitamin D. Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol) has several functions and health benefits. The benefits of Vitamin D3 run from supporting healthy bones to aiding the immune system. Vitamin D3 assists the body with calcium absorption – if calcium is not absorbed properly, bodily systems in need will take it from the bones. Vitamin D3 also supports the immune system. Vitamin D3 also strengthens breast, colon and pancreas health One of the primary natural sources of Vitamin D is the sun, so supplementation can be essential during winter, in northern climates, and during summer if you use sunscreen. Vitamin D absorption declines with age. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient required the absorption and utilisation of calcium and phosphorus. Two forms are available from foods - ergocalciferol (D2) and cholecalciferol (D3). Vitamin D is necessary for growth, development and maintenance of bones and teeth in children and adults. In its most active form, vitamin D works with calcium to control bone formation. Vitamin D can be obtained from two sources - the spontaneous formation in the skin by the sun via a phytochemical reaction in the epidermis, and the eating of a food containing vitamin D. A severe deficiency of vitamin D results in rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, which are both skeletal diseases that weaken the bones. Good food sources of vitamin D include cold-water fish, butter, egg yolks, fortified milk and cod liver oil. Solgar offers four different vitamin D supplement products dosages: 400iu (10mcg) 600iu (15mcg), and 1000iu (25mcg) in capsules or tablets form depending on your need or suspected vitamin D deficiency. |