Vitamin A - Retinol and Beta-Carotene Pure Vitamin A Only found in animal foods Beta-Carotene Pro-Vitamin A Converted to Vitamin A in gut wall

Vitamin A – Retinol and Beta-Carotene Functions Regulates growth Promotes healthy skin Maintenance of healthy epithelial tissues Necessary for production of Rhodopsin - pigment in retina, helps eye adapt to dim light Effects of deficiency Restricted growth Dry mucous membranes Xeropthalmia - dry eye membrane/ blindness Night blindness Susceptibility to infection

Vitamin A - Retinol and Beta-Carotene Sources Retinol - Cod liver oil, liver, dairy products, herring, egg yolk Beta-Carotene Dark green leafy vegetables, broccoli, carrots, deep orange fruits and vegetables

Vitamin A - Retinol and Beta-Carotene Properties Yellow Fat soluble Insoluble in water Can be destroyed by oxygen, light and air Some reduction in dehydration Powerful antioxidant RDA See text book pg. 34