Vitamin A is a family of compounds that includes retinol, retinal, and beta carotene. Both vitamin A and beta carotene are available in supplement form. Vitamin A is important for normal vision and the prevention of infectious diseases. Vitamin A combines in the retina of the eye with the specialized protein necessary for night vision. Vitamin A helps maintain the skin, lungs, and the linings of the mouth and throat.
Beta carotene helps maintain health by deactivating damaging free radicals.
Symptoms of deficiency are most likely to affect the skin, teeth, and eyes and vision. Children should consume no more than 3,500IU daily. No Daily Value has been established for beta carotene. Some health experts recommend 10mg. Vitamin A requirements are related to body weight.