Vitamin A: When to Take It & How to Track It

What is Vitamin A?

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin needed for vision, the immune system, reproduction and healthy skin. It comes in two forms: preformed vitamin A (retinol), found in liver, fish, dairy and eggs, and provitamin A carotenoids such as beta-carotene, found in orange and green vegetables. Most of the safety concerns relate to preformed vitamin A, which can build up in the body. That is why it matters to know how much vitamin A is in every product you take, including multivitamins and fish liver oils, and why vitamin A needs extra care during pregnancy.

When to take Vitamin A: general timing information

• Too much preformed vitamin A during pregnancy can cause birth defects. People who are or may become pregnant should not take high-dose preformed vitamin A supplements. [1]

• High intakes of beta-carotene do not cause the same problems as preformed vitamin A. [1]

• The weight-loss drug orlistat can reduce vitamin A absorption. [1]

• Acitretin (for psoriasis) and bexarotene are made from vitamin A, and taking them with a vitamin A supplement could cause dangerously high levels. [1]

• The NHS advises avoiding cod liver oil and supplements containing vitamin A (retinol) during pregnancy. [2]

How to set a Vitamin A reminder in Pillzy

1. 1

   Tap + in Pillzy and add your vitamin A product, noting whether it is retinol or beta-carotene.

2. 2

   Set Meal Timing to During meal and choose the frequency on your label or from your doctor.

3. 3

   Add your multivitamin and any fish liver oil too, so you can see every source of vitamin A in one list.

4. 4

   If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, add a note to check the product with your midwife or GP.