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1Essential

Vitamin A

Also sold as Retinol, retinyl palmitate, beta-carotene

Ongoing need mainly for low-vegetable diets or fat malabsorption. The retinol form accumulates.

TrustedSupp Tier System™ · Tier 1Take persistently
Check before you startThis one has documented interactions with medication classes where the consequences are serious. If you take any prescription medicine, run it past a pharmacist before starting.

Evidence strength

88/100Very strong
WEAKLIMITEDMODERATESTRONGVERY STRONG

What the evidence supports: correcting deficiency; not for general supplementation.

This scores how well-supported the claim above is — not how much benefit you personally would get. A high score on a narrow claim does not extend to everything the product is marketed for.

How long to take it

Ongoing only with malabsorption or a very low vegetable intake. Otherwise not needed at all.

Who it's actually for

People with fat malabsorption, cystic fibrosis, or diagnosed deficiency.

Safe upper limit

Verified
3,000 mcg RAE / 10,000 IU per day (preformed retinol)
Preformed retinol is genuinely toxic in excess — liver damage, bone thinning, and birth defects. Beta-carotene does not carry the same risk.
Scientific opinion on the tolerable upper intake level for preformed vitamin A and β-caroteneChecked Fri Aug 14 2026 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
Adult UL confirmed at 3,000 mcg RE/day. EFSA sets a stricter 1,500 mcg guidance level for post-menopausal women specifically.

Interactions to know about

Other supplements:

Run your full list through the interaction check.

Practical notes

  • In pregnancy, avoid retinol supplements entirely unless prescribed.
  • Beta-carotene supplements raised lung cancer risk in smokers in large trials — smokers should avoid them.
  • Check your multivitamin; retinol stacks quietly.