Signs of Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene) Deficiency on a Vegan Diet
Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene) deficiency is one of the more common nutritional considerations on a plant-based diet. Understanding the warning signs - and which plant foods prevent them - lets you eat with confidence and catch any gaps early.
- Why Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene) matters: vision, immune function, skin health and cell growth
- Top plant sources: sweet potato, carrot, butternut squash, kale, spinach
- Recommended daily intake: 700mcg men / 600mcg women - as beta-carotene in plant foods
- All sources are 100% plant-based and vegan
- Pairing tips included to maximise absorption
Top Vegan Sources of Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene)
- sweet potato
- carrot
- butternut squash
- kale
- spinach
- red pepper
- mango
- apricot
- cantaloupe melon
Recommended daily intake: 700mcg men / 600mcg women - as beta-carotene in plant foods
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes - with planning. The best vegan sources of vitamin a (beta-carotene) include: sweet potato, carrot, butternut squash, kale, spinach.
Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene) deficiency can cause fatigue, reduced immune function and long-term health complications. The recommended daily intake is 700mcg men / 600mcg women - as beta-carotene in plant foods. Regular blood tests are the most reliable way to monitor levels.
It depends on the specific nutrient. Vitamin B12 and vitamin D are strongly recommended as supplements for all vegans. Other nutrients like vitamin a (beta-carotene) can typically be met through diet if planned well.
The richest plant sources of vitamin a (beta-carotene) are: sweet potato, carrot, butternut squash, kale, spinach, red pepper, mango, apricot, cantaloupe melon.
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