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With pregnancy you might ask yourself many times, “am I eating healthy?” Eating a balance of healthy foods during your pregnancy will give your body its best nutrition. If you have any questions, make sure to ask your Physician for his or her advice. If by some chance you are told to begin taking supplements, Vitamin A may be considered part of your treatment, possibly after the first trimester.Vitamin A will come in several forms, but two forms are:

• Retinol (from food source)
• Beta-carotene (supplement source)

Foods rich in vitamin A are:

• Liver
• Fish oil
• Eggs
• Milk (whole, fortified)
• Carrots,
• Kale
• Squash
• Spinach
• Cantaloupe

Some benefits of vitamin A are:

• Bone growth
• Reproduction
• Cell division
• Cell differentiation
• Regulates immune system
• Helps the body fight infection more effectively
• Promotes healthy surface linings (eyes, respiratory, urinary)
• Functions as a barrier to bacteria and viruses

Some risks associated with vitamin A are:

• Birth defects (excessive consumption)
• Osteoporosis and hip fractures
• Delayed growth

Recommended daily intake:

• Pregnant women
  • 14 to 18 years, 750 mcg
  • 19 years or older, 770 mcg

• Women, lactating
  • 14 to 18 years, 1,200 mcg
  • 19 years or older, 1,300 mcg

This information is offered to you as information only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult your medical professional for information and or questions.

Source:
Vitamin A, iVillage Health

Tags: growth, Health, Nutrition, Pregnancy, vitamin a