Re: Vitamin A + Zinc is the key

I just bought a new multivitamin, which is gluten free. Although the manufacturer of my prior multivitamin states most of their vitamins are gluten free, I read on a forum that it actually is not gluten free. Best way to find a reputable brand is on a celiac disease site. Or get one that specifically states NO wheat in the ingredients. This new multivitamin lists 5,000 IU of Vitamin A. Since it includes 5,000 IU, I just need 5,000 IU more to total 10,000 IU. Once my levels are back to normal, I will need 5,000 IU instead of 10,000 IU. This vitamin also contains 120 mg of zinc and 10 mg of copper so I do not know if I should take additional supplement for zinc/copper.

To convert Vitamin A as retinol:
From IU to mcg: IU * 0.3 = mcg
For example: 5000 IU * 0.3 = 1500 mcg
From mcg to IU: mcg / 0.3 = IU

So, yes I believe 10,000 IU is equivalent to 3,000 mcg. The nutritionist told me to take it daily WHILE I have a Vitamin A deficiency. When my levels are back to normal, I can decrease the dose to 5,000 IU, which is 1500 mcg.

Why don't you at least have a standard blood test for Vitamin A and Zinc now just to know you have a deficiency before your level increases with supplements. I would fast for the blood test so the Vitamin A from food or supplements will not show a higher level of Vitamin A circulating in your blood than you have...at least that is what my hematologist to me to do whenever I took a blood test for iron. Tweet