We examined the role of vitamin A in helping children recover from upper respiratory infections.
In our case control study involving children aged 4-6, we found that those with respiratory infections had lower vitamin A levels compared to healthy kids.
Surprisingly, while vitamin A seems to support airway function during recovery, children with wheezing did not show the same benefits.
Overall, vitamin A appears vital for maintaining healthy respiratory function, especially when kids are fighting off infections.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Strengthened mucous membranes
26 people found this helpful
I have been taking 75000 IU of vitamin A daily for six months, and my eyesight has improved! Even when I catch a common cold, my throat is less sore, and I feel my mucous membranes have strengthened significantly. I believe this is enhanced by my intake of protein and other vitamins and minerals alongside vitamin A.
Read More
9
Supports vision health
19 people found this helpful
Vitamin A is crucial for eyesight and skin health. I often notice eye strain from computer use, and my mother, who has type 2 diabetes, has also benefited from its effects on vision. We take 1-2 capsules weekly, and I've noticed fewer symptoms of the common cold, as well as improved skin texture.
Read More
9
Improves night vision
14 people found this helpful
I’ve been consuming 25,000 IU of vitamin A daily for three years. It aids my night vision, improves hair and nail growth, and hydrates my skin. Few people can convert beta-carotene into retinol, causing widespread deficiency. Vitamin A is vital for skin, eyes, and immunity, and I’ve addressed my deficiencies with supplements.
We examined the role of vitamin A in helping children recover from upper respiratory infections.
In our case control study involving children aged 4-6, we found that those with respiratory infections had lower vitamin A levels compared to healthy kids.
Surprisingly, while vitamin A seems to support airway function during recovery, children with wheezing did not show the same benefits.
Overall, vitamin A appears vital for maintaining healthy respiratory function, especially when kids are fighting off infections.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 46 Reviews
8.2
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Negative Reviews
9
Strengthened mucous membranes
26 people found this helpful
I have been taking 75000 IU of vitamin A daily for six months, and my eyesight has improved! Even when I catch a common cold, my throat is less sore, and I feel my mucous membranes have strengthened significantly. I believe this is enhanced by my intake of protein and other vitamins and minerals alongside vitamin A.
Read More
9
Supports vision health
19 people found this helpful
Vitamin A is crucial for eyesight and skin health. I often notice eye strain from computer use, and my mother, who has type 2 diabetes, has also benefited from its effects on vision. We take 1-2 capsules weekly, and I've noticed fewer symptoms of the common cold, as well as improved skin texture.
Read More
9
Improves night vision
14 people found this helpful
I’ve been consuming 25,000 IU of vitamin A daily for three years. It aids my night vision, improves hair and nail growth, and hydrates my skin. Few people can convert beta-carotene into retinol, causing widespread deficiency. Vitamin A is vital for skin, eyes, and immunity, and I’ve addressed my deficiencies with supplements.
Read More
9
Clear skin noticed
5 people found this helpful
My son and I take 25,000 IU of vitamin A daily for a month, then take a month off. This regimen clears my dry skin and his acne remarkably fast. Many people endure similar symptoms for years, unaware it’s due to vitamin A deficiency.
Read More
7.5
Eases throat symptoms
5 people found this helpful
Following a high-protein diet, I take vitamin A each night, usually one tablet. If my throat feels uncomfortable, I take two tablets and find that symptoms of the common cold disappear by the next day. It’s an essential addition to my routine.
The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, primarily affecting the nose and throat. It's caused by a variety of viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most prevalent. Symptoms generally include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, sneezing, mild headache, and sometimes a low-grade fever. While the common cold is often mild and resolves on its own within a week or two, it can still be bothersome and impact daily activities.
Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. Preventative measures include frequent handwashing, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Since there is currently no cure for the common cold, treatment focuses on symptom relief through over-the-counter medications, adequate rest, and hydration. While colds may be uncomfortable, they are generally not serious; however, seeking medical attention may be necessary if symptoms worsen or persist for an extended period.
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that's essential for several critical bodily functions, including vision, immune response, and cell differentiation. It comes in two primary forms: preformed vitamin A (retinol) found in animal products like liver, fish, and dairy, and provitamin A carotenoids, primarily found in colorful fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach. The body can convert carotenoids into retinol, making these plant sources a valuable dietary option, especially for those following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.
Aside from its role in maintaining healthy vision—particularly in low-light conditions—vitamin A plays a significant role in skin health and the functioning of the heart, lungs, and kidneys. It also supports the immune system by promoting the development and function of white blood cells. While it's uncommon to experience a deficiency in countries where a balanced diet is accessible, a lack of vitamin A can lead to serious health problems, including night blindness and increased susceptibility to infections. In contrast, excessive intake of vitamin A, particularly through supplements, can be toxic and lead to several health issues, making it crucial to maintain a balanced intake.
While Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in maintaining immune function and skin health, its specific effectiveness in treating or preventing the common cold is not well established. Some studies suggest that adequate levels of Vitamin A can support immune response, potentially helping to fend off infections. However, there is limited evidence to directly connect higher Vitamin A intake with a reduced incidence or severity of cold symptoms.
It's important to remember that the best approach to prevent and manage the common cold involves a combination of good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet rich in various vitamins and minerals. If you're considering vitamin supplementation, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that you're meeting your nutritional needs without exceeding safe intake levels.
Based on user reviews, the time it typically takes to see results from vitamin A supplements when dealing with the common cold varies, but many users report noticeable improvements within a few days. For instance, one user mentioned that taking it in higher doses at the first sign of a cold led to a significant difference, often curing symptoms within two to three days (Read Review). Another user detailed that after increasing their intake to a higher dose, they felt better within a day of experiencing severe throat pain from a cold (Read Review).
Moreover, several users have noted that doubling their dosage upon feeling discomfort has helped prevent their symptoms from worsening and often leads to faster recovery. For example, one user reported that taking the recommended dosage helped alleviate symptoms in just three days (Read Review). In summary, while responses may vary depending on individual health and baseline vitamin A levels, many users find that increasing their intake during the onset of cold symptoms can lead to quick improvement within a matter of days.
Vitamin A may play a role in supporting recovery from the common cold, particularly in children. A study focusing on children aged 4-6 analyzed the correlation between vitamin A levels and recovery from upper respiratory infections. The findings revealed that children suffering from respiratory infections had significantly lower levels of vitamin A compared to their healthy counterparts. This suggests that adequate vitamin A intake might aid in maintaining respiratory function during the recovery process from colds [1].
However, it's important to note that the benefits of vitamin A were not uniform across all cases; children who experienced wheezing did not show the same positive effects from vitamin A intake. This indicates that while vitamin A is essential for overall respiratory health, its effectiveness in mitigating cold symptoms may vary among individuals, particularly those with specific respiratory issues [1]. Therefore, while vitamin A supplementation might support immune function in some cases, it is crucial to consider individual health factors.
Users report various improvements in symptoms related to eyesight, skin health, and respiratory issues, particularly during cold season. Many individuals, such as those taking 25,000 to 100,000 IU daily, noted significant enhancements in their vision and a reduction in eye strain and inflammation, which contributed to better overall eye health (Read Review, Read Review, Read Review). Furthermore, several users observed that higher doses taken at the onset of cold symptoms led to faster recovery, with reports of sore throats improving within a day or two (Read Review, Read Review).
Additionally, some users reflect on the long-term benefits of vitamin A supplements for skin conditions. For example, one user reported remarkable improvement in dry skin and acne, indicating that vitamin A may play a role in skin health (Read Review, Read Review). Overall, while individual results can vary based on health status and diet, many users found vitamin A helpful for both preventative and immediate relief of symptoms associated with colds and other health concerns.
Users reported positive experiences when combining vitamin A supplements with other dietary elements to enhance their effectiveness against common cold symptoms. Several individuals noted that taking vitamin A alongside vitamin C improved their recovery from colds significantly, with one user mentioning that symptoms dissipated within a few days when both supplements were used together (Read Review, Read Review). Additionally, another reviewer found that coupling vitamin A with a high-protein diet helped alleviate throat discomfort and contributed to a speedy recovery from cold symptoms (Read Review).
Moreover, users frequently emphasize the benefits of increasing their vitamin A dosage during the onset of cold symptoms, with one individual achieving success by taking a higher dose for a few days to effectively combat their illness (Read Review). There's a consensus that higher dosages, particularly when combined with other healthful substances, can bolster the immune response and strengthen mucous membranes, leading to a noticeable reduction in the severity and duration of cold symptoms (Read Review). Overall, many users advocate for personalized approaches to dosage and combinations to maximize the benefits of vitamin A in the fight against colds.
Based on user reviews, there is a mix of reported dosages for Vitamin A when treating common cold symptoms. Many users find that higher doses are effective, particularly when taken at the first signs of a cold. For instance, one user reported taking 100,000 IU for three days during a cold, noting significant improvements in symptoms Read Review. Another user took double the dosage of their regular intake, which usually consists of 25,000 IU, and observed a quick recovery when feeling discomfort in the throat Read Review.
Conversely, some users recommend lower daily doses, such as 10,000 IU, for ongoing support against cold-related symptoms, while increasing the dosage up to 25,000 IU or more as needed during bouts of sickness Read Review. Others suggest that taking four capsules a day helps effectively combat cold symptoms Read Review. Overall, users emphasize adjustable dosages based on the severity of symptoms, reinforcing Vitamin A's role in bolstering the immune system and promoting recovery.
9
Cold symptoms relief
1 people found this helpful
It works well for me; I take it daily, increasing to 100,000 IU at the first sign of a common cold, which I feel makes a noticeable difference.
7.5
Effective relief
4 people found this helpful
It works for my sore throat. When I catch a common cold, my throat hurts, and I usually recover in two days taking two capsules. If it's severe, I take four, and I feel better within a day.
9
Cold recovery assist
3 people found this helpful
Vitamin A saved me from an extended viral infection. I took it with vitamin C, and my cold symptoms greatly improved within three days. I also give it to my 4-year-old by piercing the capsule, and it works wonders at the first signs of illness.
9
Supports vision health
19 people found this helpful
Vitamin A is crucial for eyesight and skin health. I often notice eye strain from computer use, and my mother, who has type 2 diabetes, has also benefited from its effects on vision. We take 1-2 capsules weekly, and I've noticed fewer symptoms of the common cold, as well as improved skin texture.
9
Eye health boost
This powerful Vitamin A supplement positively impacted my eye health and immunity. It arrived well-packaged, and after consistent use, I've noticed less eye fatigue and clarity in vision. I'm also less likely to catch common colds now. The price is reasonable and the ingredients are natural, making me very satisfied with this product.
9
Improves night vision
14 people found this helpful
I’ve been consuming 25,000 IU of vitamin A daily for three years. It aids my night vision, improves hair and nail growth, and hydrates my skin. Few people can convert beta-carotene into retinol, causing widespread deficiency. Vitamin A is vital for skin, eyes, and immunity, and I’ve addressed my deficiencies with supplements.
7.5
Eases throat symptoms
5 people found this helpful
Following a high-protein diet, I take vitamin A each night, usually one tablet. If my throat feels uncomfortable, I take two tablets and find that symptoms of the common cold disappear by the next day. It’s an essential addition to my routine.
9
Clear skin noticed
5 people found this helpful
My son and I take 25,000 IU of vitamin A daily for a month, then take a month off. This regimen clears my dry skin and his acne remarkably fast. Many people endure similar symptoms for years, unaware it’s due to vitamin A deficiency.
7.5
Reduced throat discomfort
8 people found this helpful
After taking these tablets daily for half a year, I've found that when I feel discomfort in my throat, doubling the dose prevents it from worsening. I've avoided cold medications lately, and I’ve noticed clearer vision and improved eye health while using this product.
9
Prevents common colds
4 people found this helpful
I have used vitamin A throughout my life, both for myself and my children. It greatly aids in preventing the common cold when taken alongside vitamin C, with symptoms dissipating within a few days. It also promotes deep restful sleep without side effects.
9
Cold relief dose
1 people found this helpful
I take 100,000 IU for three days when I have a common cold.
9
Powerful anti-viral
3 people found this helpful
I've been using this Vitamin A for some time and find it a quality product for the price. Derived from fish liver oil, it serves as a powerful anti-viral, especially in high doses. Combined with Vitamin D, it has helped me avoid common colds this season.
9
Fast recovery
1 people found this helpful
It worked for a severe throat cold. I had a damaged throat lining and was coughing. After taking it 2-3 times a day, I was completely cured in about three days. While 10,000 IU is sufficient for daily use, taking 27,000 IU caused confusion for me.
9
Prevention advice
1 people found this helpful
If you sense a common cold coming, taking four capsules a day for a few days is effective.
7
Vitamin A supports airway function recovery
Vitamin A deficiency alters airway resistance in children with acute upper respiratory infection.
We examined the role of vitamin A in helping children recover from upper respiratory infections.
In our case control study involving children aged 4-6, we found that those with respiratory infections had lower vitamin A levels compared to healthy kids.
Surprisingly, while vitamin A seems to support airway function during recovery, children with wheezing did not show the same benefits.
Overall, vitamin A appears vital for maintaining healthy respiratory function, especially when kids are fighting off infections.
References
Amaral CT, Pontes NN, Maciel BL, Bezerra HS, Triesta AN, et al. Vitamin A deficiency alters airway resistance in children with acute upper respiratory infection. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013;48:481. doi:10.1002/ppul.22621