Synopsis

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

Vitamin A (retinol) has scientific support for its role in supporting immune function, particularly in the context of infections, including some bacterial infections. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining the integrity and function of epithelial tissues, which serve as barriers to infection. It also plays a role in the development and differentiation of white blood cells, such as lymphocytes, which are important for immune responses. Scientific studies have shown that vitamin A deficiency impairs both innate and adaptive immunity, increasing susceptibility to infections. Supplementation has been especially studied in children in developing countries, where vitamin A deficiency is common and associated with increased morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases.

However, while vitamin A supplementation is widely recommended for the prevention and treatment of measles (a viral infection) and has demonstrated benefits in this context, the evidence for its use specifically in treating bacterial infections is less robust. Some studies suggest benefits in reducing the severity and incidence of certain bacterial infections (such as respiratory and diarrheal diseases) in vitamin A-deficient populations, likely due to its general support of immune function and mucosal integrity. Nonetheless, vitamin A is not considered a primary or standalone treatment for bacterial infections; antibiotics remain the mainstay of therapy. The evidence is therefore moderate (rated 3) and largely limited to deficiency states or specific at-risk populations, rather than the general treatment of bacterial infections.

More about Vitamin A (retinol)
More about Infection (bacterial)

Other ingredients used for Infection (bacterial)

Other health conditions supported by Vitamin A (retinol)

Products containing Vitamin A (retinol)