Vitamin A — The Nutrient Your Body Needs Every Day
Support your vision, immunity, skin and long-term health with natural Vitamin A. Discover what it does, how much you need, and the best way to get it.
What Is Vitamin A?
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble nutrient essential for dozens of functions in your body — from helping your eyes work in low light, to keeping your immune system strong, to building healthy skin. Your body cannot produce it on its own, so you need it daily from food or supplements.
It comes in two forms: preformed Vitamin A (retinol) found in animal products like cod liver oil, eggs and dairy, and beta-carotene found in carrots, sweet potato and leafy greens. Retinol is directly usable by your body — beta-carotene must be converted first.
Key Benefits of Vitamin A
Sharp Vision
Produces rhodopsin — the pigment your eyes need to see in dim light and adjust quickly between bright and dark environments.
Strong Immunity
Maintains the skin and mucous membranes that block bacteria and viruses, and supports white blood cell production.
Healthy Skin
Speeds up skin cell renewal, reduces acne, minimises fine lines and supports collagen for firmer, more radiant skin.
Bone Strength
Supports the specialised cells that build and maintain strong, healthy bones throughout life.
Cell Growth
Regulates gene expression and cell differentiation — ensuring your cells grow into the right tissue types.
Reproductive Health
Critical for healthy foetal organ development during pregnancy and for reproductive function in men and women.
Signs You May Be Low in Vitamin A
Deficiency is more common than people realise — particularly with restrictive diets, poor fat absorption or high alcohol intake.
⚠️ Watch out for these signs
- Night blindness — difficulty seeing clearly in dim or dark conditions
- Frequent infections — regularly catching colds, flu or respiratory illness
- Dry, rough skin — skin that does not heal well or stays persistently dry
- Dry, irritated eyes — eyes that feel gritty or struggle to produce tears
- Slow wound healing — cuts and scrapes taking unusually long to recover
- Fatigue — persistent low energy even with adequate sleep
HPDC Products Rich in Vitamin A
The richest natural source of preformed Vitamin A is cod liver oil — and our premium capsules deliver it alongside Vitamin D and Omega-3 for maximum benefit.
Premium Cod Liver Oil 1000mg
Natural Vitamin A, Vitamin D and Omega-3 in every capsule. Cold-processed to preserve potency — one capsule a day with a meal supports vision, immunity, joints and glowing skin.
65 Caps — £22.50
95 Caps — £35.99
125 Caps — £35.99
Organic Flaxseed Oil 1000mg
A 100% vegan source of Omega-3, 6 and 9 that works alongside Vitamin A for better absorption and skin health. Perfect plant-based alternative for those who avoid fish-derived products.
65 Caps — £22.50
95 Caps — £35.99
How Much Vitamin A Do You Need?
Vitamin A is fat-soluble and stored in the body — so consistent daily intake matters, but excess over time can accumulate. Stick to the recommended amounts below.
| Who | Daily Recommended Intake | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Men | 700 mcg RAE (2,300 IU) | General daily maintenance |
| Adult Women | 600 mcg RAE (2,000 IU) | General daily maintenance |
| Pregnant Women | 770 mcg RAE | Supports foetal development |
| Breastfeeding | 1,300 mcg RAE | Increased need post-birth |
| Children | 300–600 mcg RAE | Varies by age |
Common Questions
Is Vitamin A the same as beta-carotene?
No. Beta-carotene is a plant-based precursor that your body converts into active Vitamin A. Preformed retinol from animal sources like cod liver oil is directly bioavailable — no conversion needed.
Can I take too much Vitamin A?
Yes — unlike water-soluble vitamins, excess Vitamin A is stored in the liver. Very high doses over time can cause toxicity. This is rare at standard supplement levels, but always follow dosage guidelines and speak to a professional if pregnant.
When should I take Vitamin A supplements?
Being fat-soluble, Vitamin A is best absorbed with a meal that contains some dietary fat. Take your Cod Liver Oil capsule with lunch or dinner for best results.
Is the Cod Liver Oil suitable for vegetarians?
No — it is derived from fish. For a plant-based alternative, our Organic Flaxseed Oil 1000mg provides Omega-3, 6 and 9 and supports Vitamin A absorption as part of a balanced diet.
Start Getting Your Daily Vitamin A
One HPDC Cod Liver Oil capsule a day gives you natural Vitamin A, Vitamin D and Omega-3 — everything your body needs, all in one.