That statement is not medically sound as a general recommendation. A pharmacist would not normally recommend vitamin A supplements to everyone.
Vitamin A is essential for vision, immune function, reproduction, and normal cell growth, but most people should obtain it from a varied diet unless they have a demonstrated deficiency or a specific medical reason for supplementation. Office of Dietary Supplements+1
Why taking extra vitamin A can be risky
- Vitamin A is fat-soluble, so excess preformed vitamin A can accumulate in the body.
- High doses over time can cause liver problems, headaches, nausea, bone and joint problems, and other toxicity symptoms. Office of Dietary Supplements+1
- Excess preformed vitamin A during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects. NCCIH
- The adult upper limit for preformed vitamin A is 3,000 mcg RAE (10,000 IU) per day from all sources. Office of Dietary Supplements
- People taking certain retinoid medicines need particular caution because these can add to vitamin A exposure. Office of Dietary Supplements
Vitamin A deficiency does occur in some populations and medical conditions, so supplementation can be appropriate when medically indicated. MedlinePlus
A better headline would be:
“Vitamin A Is Essential—but Should Everyone Take a Supplement?”
The answer is no: supplements should be based on individual needs, not a blanket recommendation.
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