Supplemental vitamin dosages should be taken under medical supervision only, as some vitamins are stored in the body and can reach toxic levels. Some, such as vitamin A taken repeatedly in high dosages, have dangerous and even tragic side effects. Particularly those at risk are women during pregnancy. Diabetes is another factor to consider in relationship to vitamin supplements.
Vitamin A is derived from two natural sources: animal and
Before Accutane: After Accutane plant. Hence diet is the first and most natural area to examine. Deficiencies commonly occur from not eating enough of the foods that contain certain vitamins. This may or may not be by choice. In developing countries there is often no choice, but in developed countries it is more by choice.
What are natural sources of vitamin A? Let's look at a few.
Animal sources: • Meat • Liver • Kidney • Eggs • Dairy products (whole milk) • Fish oils • Etc.
Plant sources: • Red and orange fruits • Cantaloupes • Carrots • Spinach • Sweet potatoes • Mangoes • Squash • Etc.
There are many other sources of vitamin A or foods that contain substances from which the body derives it. A good, balanced, healthy diet should satisfy our body's needs naturally. We can easily see the benefit in relationship to acne of a strong immune system and tissue maintenance and growth.
A risk to our health can arise from an unregulated intake of vitamin A supplements. This is a classic case of more does not make better. It doesn't mean that supplements don't have their place. The intention here is to raise a red flag of warning for anyone considering self treatment without proper supervision.
Considering the physical and psychological impact of acne and the abundance of those claiming to have cures, it may be tempting to try just about anything. Vitamins A, E, C and various B vitamins are believed to be, in one way or another, of benefit in acne treatment, but again, not as a stand alone cure.
Vitamins for acne treatment should be considered at most only a part of a holistic treatment method, or as a part of the whole process of wellness and good health. Your doctor or dermatologist, upon examination will be able to determine if you have a deficiency of vitamin A, or any other deficiencies. Proceeding with their recommendations will always be the best policy.
As a positive step toward good health, healing and prevention of disease, why not examine your diet and eating habits. One easy way to naturally supplement your vitamin intake is to begin substituting a fruit or vegetable for sweet snacks. Another easy method is simply adding a healthy vegetable or fruit to your menu. A lot of our diets mostly consist of old habits. It may not be the total answer or cure for your acne but eating "right" will be a step in the right direction.