Why does Optimal Prenatal contain such a high amount of Vitamin A in the retinol form?Updated 6 months ago
The body naturally converts the plant-derived beta carotene into the active retinol form of vitamin A via the BC01 enzyme. However, a significant amount of the population has a polymorphism in the BCO1 gene which greatly reduces the ability to convert beta carotene to retinol vitamin A. Thus, a significant amount of the population may be vitamin A deficient if only ingesting beta carotene.
Optimal Prenatal contains approximately 750 mcg retinyl palmitate (retinol) and approximately 750 mcg beta-carotene. The beta carotene does not contribute towards the upper limit of vitamin A, rather, it is considered a "provitamin" because it can be converted into vitamin A within the body. High amounts of retinol have been reported as potential factors in pregnancy issues or birth defects, however not beta carotene. Therefore this product does not exceed the established safe daily doses of vitamin A.
The tolerable upper limits for retinol vitamin A intake, according to the Food and Nutrition Board, are as follows:
Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (ULs) for Preformed Vitamin A | ||||
Age |
Male |
Female |
Pregnancy |
Lactation |
0–12 months |
600 mcg RAE(2,000 IU) |
600 mcg RAE(2,000 IU) |
|
|
1–3 years |
600 mcg RAE(2,000 IU) |
600 mcg RAE(2,000 IU) |
|
|
4–8 years |
900 mcg RAE(3,000 IU) |
900 mcg RAE(3,000 IU) |
|
|
9–13 years |
1,700 mcg RAE(5,667 IU) |
1,700 mcg RAE(5,667 IU) |
|
|
14–18 years |
2,800 mcg RAE(9,333 IU) |
2,800 mcg RAE(9,333 IU) |
2,800 mcg RAE(9,333 IU) |
2,800 mcg RAE(9,333 IU) |
19+ years |
3,000 mcg RAE(10,000 IU) |
3,000 mcg RAE(10,000 IU) |
3,000 mcg RAE(10,000 IU) |
3,000 mcg RAE(10,000 IU) |
Vitamin A is an essential nutrient, especially during pregnancy and nursing. As with all supplements, we recommend that you consult with your doctor to determine whether this product will be appropriate for your individual needs. You should also take into account preformed vitamin A sources in your other supplements and in your diet when determining whether the dose of this product will work for you. You can also choose to take less than a full dose if you would rather take less vitamin A.
†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.