Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin A
For the health condition: Night Blindness

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Synopsis

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

Vitamin A is scientifically validated as an effective treatment for night blindness, particularly when the condition arises from vitamin A deficiency. Night blindness, or nyctalopia, is characterized by difficulty seeing in low-light or dark environments and is closely linked to the health of the retina, where vitamin A plays a crucial biochemical role. Vitamin A is essential for the formation of rhodopsin, a pigment in the retina that is necessary for vision in dim light. When vitamin A levels are insufficient, rhodopsin regeneration is impaired, leading to diminished ability to see at night.

Numerous studies and clinical trials have shown that vitamin A supplementation can rapidly improve night blindness symptoms in individuals with deficiency, a fact recognized by global health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO). For instance, vitamin A supplementation is a frontline intervention in populations at risk of deficiency, particularly in children and pregnant women in developing countries. Historical evidence also supports this, as ancient Egyptian and Greek texts describe the use of animal liver (a rich source of vitamin A) to treat night blindness.

However, vitamin A supplementation will only benefit those whose night blindness is due to deficiency; other causes, such as genetic retinal diseases, do not respond to vitamin A. In summary, the use of vitamin A for treating night blindness secondary to deficiency is strongly supported by both historical precedent and robust scientific evidence.

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