Attention to diet is essential to keep us healthy. As we all know, it is important to take in adequate quantities of certain essential nutrients for our body on a daily basis, to make sure that our body is functioning at its best. Unfortunately, sometimes we may be deficient in a certain micronutrient or vitamin. In particular, in Italy among the most widespread deficiencies there are that of iron and vitamin B12. Iron deficiency is more common in women, and B12 deficiency in the elderly. But be careful, because there is another less known vitamin that unfortunately is not talked about enough.
Beware of vitamin A deficiency
But what deficiency are they talking about? This is the lack of vitamin A. Vitamin A is also called retinol and with this name we can also indicate similar molecules. It is a fat-soluble vitamin, which properly speaking is present above all in foods of animal origin. However, plant foods contain carotenoids, which are considered precursors of vitamin A. Vitamin A must be introduced with the diet and unfortunately, deficiencies can sometimes occur. But what are the symptoms of a vitamin A deficiency? And precisely in which foods is it contained?
One of the most common deficiencies in Italy is not iron or B12 but this other vitamin that helps bones and the immune system
Vitamin A is essential above all for the formation and proper functioning of epithelial tissues, skin and mucous membranes, as well as the teeth. Also very important for bones and for strengthening the immune system. Its deficiency could lead to skin problems, even serious ones, and vision difficulties.
Also pay attention to vision problems, especially in the evening
One of the most common deficiencies in Italy is that of vitamin A. One of the most distinctive symptoms of this deficiency would be vision problems, in particular the inability to see in low light conditions. This condition can lead to so-called night blindness or hemeralopia, which occurs when the retina is no longer sensitive enough. People with vitamin A deficiency in the evening would see much worse than those without a deficiency.
In which foods it is contained
As already mentioned, vitamin A is found in foods of animal origin, especially liver, dairy products and eggs, but also in plant foods, especially those of red or orange color, such as apricots, carrots or tomatoes.
But also pay attention to the opposite problem: excess vitamin A can lead to serious liver problems.
Another symptom of vitamin deficiencies that many don’t recognize is fatigue and irritability. If we are constantly nervous or irritable, we may need this vitamin.