Although all vitamins and minerals are important nutrients for promoting optimal health, some garner more attention from the media and health-conscious individuals than others. In some cases, this is because such nutrients are found in many common foods and individuals are not likely to be deficient in them. In other cases, this is because the nutrient in question can be easily made by one's body. Because Retinol does not fit into either of these categories, it is a hot topic of conversation among professionals in the world of health care as well as casual consumers simply trying to live the healthiest lives they can. Understanding why this nutrient is the source of such attention is not difficult once you get an understanding of the roles it plays.
Retinol is a versatile nutrient that is involved in the promotion of a number of distinct bodily functions. Outside of health, beauty and fitness applications, Retinol is not often referred to by name, as this form of vitamin A is usually simply called 'vitamin A.' However, all forms of vitamin A have slightly different functions, and Retinol is no different. This distinct form of vitamin A is most often cited for its benefits in eye care. Extensive medical research has linked adequate intake of this nutrient and healthy vision, which is why some foods, such as carrots, are said to be good for eyesight - this is due to the Retinol content in such foods. And while this nutritional benefit is one of the utmost importance, improvement in eyesight is far from the only benefit to be derived from this form of vitamin A.
In addition to the vision benefits, this form of vitamin A is also quite important for maintaining skin health. This nutrient is essential for the optimal functioning of your epithelial cells, which line the exterior and interior parts of your skin. These cells are your body's first line of defense, as they can help prevent contaminants from entering your body. Additionally, the epithelial cells also secrete substances that promote optimal health and are regulate what substances are absorbed by your body. It's important to take in adequate levels of this vitamin A form because consuming too little can lead to xerosis cutis, otherwise known as dry skin. For this reason, vitamin A-enhanced skin creams and ointments are among the most effective products. Although coloring agents and other ingredients can be helpful, it's important to have science-based, nutritionally justified cosmetic product formulas for optimal effects.
Forms of vitamin A such as Retinol are also vital for proper growth and development. In addition to providing the nutrition necessary ensuring healthy skin and vision, this form of vitamin A is involved in the production of human growth hormone. Although this hormone is often the center of cheating scandals for professional athletes, human growth hormone is not something that needs to be feared or used only by elite athletes. In fact, everyone naturally produces human growth hormone, so vitamin A is healthy for all.
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