VITAMIN A DEFICIENCY

Vitamin A deficiency also known as VITAMINOSIS is a disease that occurs when the body doesn’t have enough vitamin A therefore leading to health problems. Causes of this deficiency include; Poor diet (lack of vitamin A-rich foods like sweet potatoes, carrots, and dark leafy greens), Malabsorption ( that is certain medical conditions or gut issues), Increased demand (pregnancy, growth spurts, or infections). The following are symptoms that are related to Vitamin A deficiency;

– Dry, rough or scaly skin

– Impaired immune function

– Hair loss

– Poor wound healing

– Increased risk of infections

– Blindness (if left untreated)

– Night blindness (difficulty seeing in low light)

Vitamin A deficiency can be managed through nutrition and this involves incorporating and increasing the intake of vitamin A rich foods in diet. Sources of vitamin A-rich foods are; animal-based sources ( liver,beef, chicken,eggs, dairy products, Fatty fish like salmon), plant-based sources (Sweet potatoes, Carrots, Dark leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collard greens, Squash e.g pumpkin, butternut, and acorn, Mangoes etc. Also food high in beta carotene, fortified foods and also considering supplements.

Various groups are at the risk of vitamin A deficiency and they include; children and pregnant women in developing countries, people with restrictive diet e.g vegans and gluten free, and also those with gut disorder. Therefore, it is very essential to address vitamin A deficiency promptly and underlying healyh issues in order to prevent long term damage and ensure optimal health and overall well-being of an individual.

Vitamin A deficiency can be effectively managed through nutrition and also support overall well-being and health. It is also very essential to consult an health-care professional for proper evaluation and guidance.

 

You can read more on the following disease : DIETARY MANAGEMENT OF LIVER DISEASEÂ

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