An accumulation of free radicals can damage body cells and tissues. Women, from age 11 on, should get 800 RE per day. There is no increase of vitamin A requirements during pregnancy but lactating women need about 500 RE or more per day. Vitamin A can be stored in the fatty tissues of the body. This can pose a problem for people taking high doses of vitamin A in the form of supplements.
High doses can be toxic and cause symptoms such as headaches, dry and scaly skin and liver damage.
Vitamin A can only reach toxic levels if a person is taking supplements. Carotenoids are not converted to vitamin A fast enough to increase the amount of vitamin A stored in the body. Beta-carotene is NOT toxic to the body. Just as high doses of vitamin A are a problem, getting too little can have side effects too. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean meats and fortified dairy products to ensure optimal intake of vitamin A. Read food labels to help choose foods with vitamin A content.