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What is retinol for?

by Alivia Nyhan
Published: Last Updated on

Retinol, also called preformed vitamin A, is a vitamin that can dissolve in fats or oils and is not flushed out with urine. Retinol is the active form of vitamin A, which, when oxidized, is transformed into retinoic acid, with more effective properties. Naturally, we can only find retinol in foods of animal origin, such as fish, eggs, liver, milk, and butter. On the other hand, it can also be obtained through the transformation of carotenes, present mainly in yellow and green leafy vegetables.

Preformed vitamin A plays an essential role in the functioning and development of various body components. Retinol deficiency in the body can cause serious problems, such as xerophthalmia, follicular hyperkeratosis, and night blindness. Therefore, do not hesitate to assist a doctor with any dry eyes or skin symptoms. On the other hand, excess vitamin A performed in the system can be toxic, causing headaches, nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. The lack or shortage of this vitamin in our body should not be taken lightly, so at FastlyHealwe will explain what retinol is for.

Improves eyesight

The primary function of retinol in the body involves the correct functioning of sight since this vitamin is essential in developing the pigmentary system in the retina. Improves low light vision, peripheral vision, and color

For this reason, retinol is continuously used in the visual cycle, which causes a large amount of this component to be lost, and its constant replacement is necessary, which is obtained from the consumed food.

Boosts the immune system

The properties of retinol help to optimize the immune system, favoring the response to infectious diarrhea and, in cases of measles in children, for example, reducing the mortality rate from these diseases. This vitamin contributes to the maintenance and recovery of the good state of the intestinal epithelium, fighting diarrheal diseases.

Likewise, its participation in the immune system consists of awakening the action response depending on the type of pathogen present in the body, mainly activating the mechanisms of humoral immunity, which are responsible for defense against extracellular microorganisms and their toxins.

Benefits the condition of the skin

Many people know what retinol is for in the skin since it has been integrated into many beauty products. The skin is another organ favored by the properties of retinol since it stimulates collagen production, modulates the expression of dermal growth factors, acts as an antioxidant, and prevents the appearance of free radicals. This is reflected in several characteristics, for example:

  • Eliminates dead skin cells by removing the upper layers of the skin, giving it a smoother and more uniform appearance.
  • This vitamin, together with melanin, gives a more radiant and healthy color to the skin.
  • Retinol also serves to fight wrinkles by eliminating and avoiding the appearance of free radicals. It prevents the aging of cells and the formation of new expression lines. It also regenerates the skin where there are pre-existing marks.
  • Another function for which retinol is also known is its use against acne. Due to its properties, it regenerates the skin and delays cellular aging. Eliminate acne and prevent its future appearance. Reduces pimples on oily skin, blemishes, and acne scars and improves skin texture.
  • Retinol contributes to the formation and proper development of epithelial cells, forming the epithelium covering the different organs and internal cavities, such as glands, skin, and mucous membranes. Because the epithelium is constantly regenerating, it is essential to maintain adequate levels of this vitamin in the system, or the proper functioning of the body may be affected internally and the balance of the skin and mucous membranes externally.
  • Retinol and some of its derivatives have been used as systemic agents against hyperkeratotic diseases or certain types of skin cancer.

Promotes bone development

Preformed vitamin A or retinol is involved in bone development in the body. Its intervention is essential for the average growth of epiphyseal cartilage cells. Together with degenerative enzymes from cells that remodel bone, this vitamin helps remove bone parts in specific sites for optimal growth. On the other hand, the adequate intake of retinol improves tooth enamel, supports the proper development of the teeth, and gives them hardness.

Retinol-containing foods

Some of the foods where you can find preformed vitamin A are:

  • Beef, pork, chicken, or turkey liver
  • Carrots
  • Beef.
  • Fish.
  • Poultry.
  • Dairy products.
  • Broccoli.
  • Spinach.
  • Pumpkin.
  • Potato.
  • Papaya.
  • Lettuce.
  • Kale.
  • Butter.

Retinol contraindications

Retinol naturally, that is, those found in skim dairy products, fruits, and vegetables, do not have any side effects; however there may be some contraindications in the case of ingesting vitamin A supplements:

  • If you have any liver disease.
  • People who suffer from gastrointestinal infections or malabsorption of fats.
  • Pregnant or lactating women.
  • If you are allergic to this vitamin.

This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any condition or discomfort.

If you want to read more articles similar to What is retinol for? We recommend that you enter our Wellness category.

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