Synopsis

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

Vitamin A has scientific validation for its use in supporting the immune system and treating certain infections, particularly in populations at risk of deficiency. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining the integrity and function of skin and mucosal cells, which are the body’s first line of defense against pathogens. It also plays a crucial role in both innate and adaptive immunity. Deficiency in vitamin A has been linked to increased susceptibility to infections, especially respiratory and gastrointestinal infections in children. Notably, high-dose vitamin A supplementation is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for children with measles in areas where vitamin A deficiency is a public health problem, as it has been shown to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with measles and some other infections.

However, for the general use of vitamin A supplements to treat or prevent infections in well-nourished populations, the evidence is less robust. Most benefits are seen in populations at risk of deficiency, such as young children in low- and middle-income countries. Excessive vitamin A supplementation in individuals without deficiency can lead to toxicity and has not been shown to provide additional benefit. Overall, vitamin A is scientifically validated for infection support in the context of deficiency or specific infections (like measles), but not as a general anti-infective agent for the general population.

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