Vitamin A is an indispensable nutrient as it is crucial for various bodily functions, from immune function and reproduction to maintaining healthy vision and skin. Obtaining sufficient vitamin A is vital for overall well-being. This blog will tell you about the valuable sources of vitamin A and how we can incorporate them into our diet. Hence, you can explore a diverse range of foods that contain vitamin A. Let’s find out more about these foods.
Vitamin A Sources
Here are the common sources of vitamin A:
- Beef Liver: Rich in preformed vitamin A, a 3-ounce pan-fried beef liver provides 731% of the required daily value (DV). Apart from vitamin A, beef liver is a high-protein organ meat containing copper, vitamins B2 and B12, iron, folate, and choline.
- Cod Liver Oil: Fish liver, particularly cod liver, offers preformed vitamin A, with one tablespoon providing 170% of the DV. Cod liver oil is also a potent source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, promoting heart health and immunity.
- Sweet Potato: One baked sweet potato, rich in beta-carotene, provides 156% of the DV for vitamin A. Additionally, sweet potato is low in calories and fibre and a vital source of vitamins B6 and C and potassium.
- Carrots: Carrots, abundant in beta-carotene, offer 51% of the DV for vitamin A in half a cup of raw carrots. Carrots are a nutritious low-calorie snack that contributes to better gut health, given their high dietary fibre content.
- Black-Eyed Peas: A cup of boiled black-eyed peas provides 7% of the DV for vitamin A and is an excellent plant-based protein and fibre source. Studies support the role of beans in promoting heart health and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Spinach: Half a cup of boiled spinach offers 64% of the DV for vitamin A, iron, and magnesium. Research suggests that spinach can lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
- Broccoli: A half-cup of broccoli provides 7% of the DV for vitamin A and is a rich source of vitamins C and K. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli may reduce the risk of specific cancerous cells from developing.
- Sweet Red Pepper: Half a cup of raw sweet red bell pepper contributes 13% of the DV for vitamin A. Sweet red peppers are low in calories and rich in antioxidants such as capsanthin and quercetin.
Conclusion
Maintaining an adequate intake of vitamin A is essential for overall health, positively impacting immune function, vision, and various bodily processes. Incorporating a diverse range of foods rich in vitamin A, including liver, fish, and more, ensures a balanced diet that meets the recommended daily intake of vitamin A. Prioritising nutrient-rich foods contributes to physical well-being and aligns with a holistic approach to health.
Further, securing comprehensive health insurance is crucial for accessing necessary medical care and ensuring proactive health management. Regular check-ups, consultations, and diagnostic tests, combined with a nutrient-rich diet, are robust strategies for promoting overall well-being.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical or nutrition professional before making any significant changes in your daily diet. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any impact or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.