Vitamins A & E
3 productsVitamin A (retinol, beta-carotene) and vitamin E (tocopherols): amount per daily dose, form and price.
Vitamins A & E
Vitamin A is sold as retinol and beta-carotene, vitamin E as natural or synthetic tocopherols, often in softgels. Both are fat-soluble, so take them with a meal.
The EU authorises claims such as vitamin A for the maintenance of normal vision and vitamin E for the protection of cells from oxidative stress, shown on a product when its dose meets the condition. The upper level of vitamin A is 3000 µg a day; in pregnancy, ask a doctor first.
FAQ
How do retinol and beta-carotene differ?
Retinol is vitamin A itself; beta-carotene is its precursor, from which the body makes vitamin A.
Natural or synthetic vitamin E?
The natural form is labelled d-alpha-tocopherol, the synthetic one dl-alpha-tocopherol; mixed tocopherols contain several forms.
Why take them with food?
These vitamins dissolve in fat and are absorbed better with a meal that contains fat.