Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin A (including its ester form, retinyl palmitate) has a scientifically supported role in supporting the immune system and reducing susceptibility to certain infections, particularly in populations with vitamin A deficiency. Multiple studies, especially in children in developing countries, have shown that vitamin A supplementation can reduce morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases like measles and, to a lesser extent, diarrheal illnesses. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends high-dose vitamin A supplementation in children with measles in areas with high prevalence of deficiency, as it has been shown to decrease the severity and complications of the infection.

The biological rationale lies in vitamin A’s role in maintaining the integrity and function of epithelial tissues and the immune system. Vitamin A is essential for the differentiation of mucosal epithelial cells, which serve as a barrier to pathogens. It also plays a role in the development and function of white blood cells, which are critical for mounting effective immune responses.

However, evidence for vitamin A supplementation’s benefit in infection is largely limited to cases of deficiency or high-risk populations, and not for the general, well-nourished population. In individuals with adequate vitamin A status, supplementation has not shown consistent benefits in preventing or treating infections and may even be harmful in excessive doses.

In summary, the use of vitamin A (retinyl palmitate) to support or treat infection is scientifically validated, but benefits are largely significant only where deficiency exists.

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