TREATMENT DATABASE

Vitamin A (retinol) is a lipid-soluble vitamin that plays a variety of roles in human metabolism. It helps maintain the health of the skin and all mucous linings of the body (stomach, intestines, bladder, mouth, nose, throat, windpipe, and other air passages). It is essential for vision. Vitamin A also increases resistance to infections and is involved in the maintenance of the adrenal cortex, where cortisol is formed. People with low thyroid often take vitamin A supplements, as the thyroid is responsible for converting beta-carotene into vitamin A.

USES IN ME/CFS. Vitamin A is primarily used to help maintain mucous membranes, which are often compromised in patients. Patients prone to intestinal, respiratory, or ear infections also take vitamin A to boost immune system efficiency.

The recommended daily allowance for vitamin A is 5000 IU a day. A physician or nutritionist should be consulted before taking larger doses to prevent possible overdosing. (Lipid-soluble vitamins are stored in the liver.) Loss of appetite, irritability, widespread itching, headaches, and mouth ulcers are all signs of vitamin A toxicity.

Treatment rating for Vitamin A