There is a unique relationship between Protein and Vitamin A. Animal studies from Furusho et al (1) have shown that vitamin A reserves held within the liver are diminished when a high protein diet is eaten. Vitamin A is seen to increase in the rest of the body during this time. One theory as to why this is the case is that protein is the key to vitamin A transport and utilization within the body (2).

In short, vitamin A is depleted in the liver by a high protein diet, but it is also needed for new protein synthesis in the case of athletes or bodybuilders, for example. If protein is eaten without fat — as is the case with eating strictly lean diets — you may find that precious fat-soluble vitamins (such as Vitamin A!) will be depleted from your system more rapidly. “The combination of a high-protein diet that depletes vitamin A and a low-fat diet that fails to provide vitamin A is a clear recipe for deficiency of this vital nutrient” (3).

If you are looking for a source of protein to add to your diet, look no further than our newest addition to our line, our Perfect Plant Protein is in! Now, if you are wondering where are sources of vitamin A to complement your protein intake, we’ve got you covered for both vegetarian and animal based diets. Perfect Aquatic Greens, a 50/50 blend of Chlorella and Spirulina, is our richest source of Vitamin A, with a whopping 5,282 iu of Vitamin A per serving. Perfect Desiccated Liver is another amazing option for those looking for rich sources of Vitamin A.

references:

(1) Furusho, et. al.,“Tissue specific-distribution and metabolism of vitamin A are affected by dietary protein levels in rats,” Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 1998; 68(5):287-92.

(2) Narbonne, et. al.,“Protein metabolism in vitamin A deficient rats. II. Protein synthesis in striated muscle,” Ann Nutr Aliment. 1978; 32(1):59-75.

(3) Masterjohn, C. (2004). Vitamin A, The Forgotten Bodybuilding Nutrient, Wise Traditions.