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Safe Strategies to Boost Vitamin A Levels While Managing Allergies and Cholesterol

Explore dietary and supplement options to safely increase Vitamin A levels. Consider plant sources like beta-carotene for a mindful approach, especially with allergies to cod and elevated cholesterol. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized recommendations.


  • Best way to increase Vitamin A levels?

    Have been having night vision issues, so I pushed for a test and i’m actually deficient. Tested through Quest and was 30L in Dec and retested recently with result of 25.

    How can i get my levels up quickly and safely? What form is best - beta carotene? Retinyl palmitate?

    Considerations-

    Allergic to cod

    Want to be mindful of toxicity

    Have elevated cholesterol (212), so am hesitant to continue with beef liver capsules, which was my initial route that didnt work

  • Increasing your Vitamin A levels safely involves balancing dietary sources and potentially using supplements. Here are some strategies:

    1. Dietary Sources:

      • Preformed Vitamin A (Retinol): This is found in animal sources such as eggs and dairy products. Since you're allergic to cod, you might include fortified dairy products and eggs, which are good alternatives12.
      • Provitamin A (Beta-Carotene): Found in bright-colored fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and kale. These foods are cholesterol-free, making them a good option considering your elevated cholesterol13. The body converts beta-carotene into Vitamin A, and it does not pose a risk of toxicity, only a change in skin color if overconsumed4.
    2. Supplementation:

      • Consider beta-carotene supplements or retinyl palmitate if you choose supplements. Beta-carotene is safer in terms of avoiding toxicity, as it converts to Vitamin A in the body in regulation with its requirements56.
      • Be cautious with dosages, especially with retinyl palmitate to avoid toxicity. The recommended dietary allowance for Vitamin A varies, but it's safe not to exceed 10,000 IU of preformed vitamin A daily67.
    3. Balanced Diet:

      • Opt for a varied and balanced diet that includes both animal and plant sources to naturally boost your Vitamin A levels along with other nutrients7.

    Considering your specific conditions and dietary restrictions, focusing on plant sources rich in beta-carotene and low-fat animal products could be beneficial. Always consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist before starting any new supplement regimen to tailor the advice to your individual health needs and to monitor your vitamin levels adequately.

    Footnotes

    1. MedlinePlus, Vitamin A 2

    2. NHS, Vitamin A

    3. Harvard Nutrition Source

    4. Office of Dietary Supplements

    5. NCBI Bookshelf, Vitamin A

    6. Office of Dietary Supplements - Consumer 2

    7. StatPearls, Vitamin A 2

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