Vitamin A is an important nutrient for maintaining good vision, a healthy immune system, and normal functioning of the heart, lungs, and kidneys. A deficiency can lead to a variety of health problems.

Here are six common signs of vitamin A deficiency and the best natural sources to ensure you get enough of this important nutrient:

1. Night blindness – a hallmark sign of vitamin A deficiency

Vitamin A is a major component of rhodopsin, a protein in the eye that helps us see clearly in dim light. One of the earliest signs of vitamin A deficiency is night blindness (difficulty seeing in low light or darkness).

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that vitamin A supplementation improved night vision in deficient children.

Carrots, sweet potatoes, and dark leafy greens like spinach and kale are excellent sources of vitamin A. Adding these foods to your daily diet can help improve vision and prevent night blindness.

2. Dry skin and hair

Dry skin is a manifestation of vitamin A deficiency.

Vitamin A plays an important role in skin health by promoting the growth of new skin cells. A deficiency can lead to dry, scaly skin and brittle hair. Vitamin A deficiency can aggravate skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

Consuming foods rich in vitamin A, such as mangoes, papayas and red bell peppers… can help maintain healthy skin and hair

3. Frequent Infections

Vitamin A is important for the development and function of immune cells, including T cells and B cells… which are needed to maintain a healthy immune system. A deficiency can weaken the body’s defense mechanisms, making you more susceptible to infections…

Dairy products such as milk and cheese, along with eggs, are rich in vitamin A.

4. Slow healing wounds

Vitamin A is important for skin repair and regeneration. Vitamin A aids in the production of collagen, which is needed for wound healing. If a wound takes longer than usual to heal, it could be a sign of vitamin A deficiency.

Liver, especially chicken liver, is one of the best sources of vitamin A.

5. Fertility problems

Vitamin A is also important for reproductive health. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to fertility problems in both men and women. A deficiency in vitamin A can affect sperm production in men and egg quality in women.

Green leafy vegetables such as fenugreek leaves are good sources of vitamin A. These foods can support reproductive health and improve fertility.

6. Slow growth in children

Children who are deficient in vitamin A often experience slow growth and developmental problems. This nutrient is essential for proper bone growth and development. Vitamin A supplementation significantly improves growth in deficient children.

Orange and yellow fruits such as papaya and oranges are excellent sources of vitamin A.