Vitamin A

No. Beta-carotene is a provitamin that the body converts into vitamin A. Retinyl acetate is a preformed source of vitamin A. Viridian Beta Carotene uses the alga Dunaliella salina, while NutriWorks Vitamin A uses retinyl acetate. A plant-based capsule shell alone does not tell you which form is inside; check the ingredients.

The table for Viridian Vitamin A 5000 IU expresses the same amount as 1500 µg of vitamin A per capsule. NutriWorks lists 1000 µg per capsule. Do not compare the numbers without their units. Do not apply this preformed vitamin A conversion to the weight of beta-carotene; for that, look for the explicitly stated vitamin A equivalent.

Check your multivitamin, skin supplements and cod liver oil: any of them may contain vitamin A. Note each product's amount per whole serving and its form, especially retinol or retinyl acetate. Vitamin A is stored in the body, so more products do not automatically mean better results. If a blend has no clear amount stated, verify its content first.

Do not add a separate vitamin A supplement containing retinol or retinyl acetate without discussing it with a doctor. Excess preformed vitamin A can harm fetal development, and other sources must be counted too. NutriWorks Vitamin A explicitly states that it is not intended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. The word “vitamin” or a plant-based capsule does not remove this restriction.

Smokers should avoid beta-carotene supplements; former smokers should discuss their choice with a doctor. Studies in these groups found an increased risk of lung cancer with high supplemental doses. A natural source from algae is not a guarantee of safety. This warning is not a reason to remove ordinary vegetables from your diet.