Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for many physiological functions in the body. Chemical name - Retinol Retinol or All-Trans-Retinol and Beta-carotene Retinol and beta-carotene are both related to vitamin A but differ in several significant ways: Retinol: Retinol is a form of preformed vitamin A. It is found in animal-based foods such as liver, fish oils, milk, eggs, and some fortified foods. Retinol is directly usable by the body. It plays a crucial role in vision, immune function, and skin health. It does not require conversion to be utilized by the body. Retinol is more potent than beta-carotene, meaning it is more effective in smaller amounts. Molecular formula - C₂₀H₃₀O Molecular weight - 286.46 g/mol Beta-Carotene: Beta-carotene is a provitamin A carotenoid. It is found in plant-based foods such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and other leafy green vegetables. Beta-carotene is an antioxidant and a precursor to vitamin A. The body converts beta-carotene into reti