What is the primary function of vitamin A?

Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision and supporting immune function. It is essential for the formation of rhodopsin, a pigment in the retina that allows for vision in low-light conditions. A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to night blindness and other vision-related issues. Additionally, vitamin A is vital for the functioning of the immune system, as it helps in the production and differentiation of white blood cells, which are key to fighting infections.

While muscle growth and development, blood clotting, and metabolism are important physiological functions, they primarily rely on other nutrients. For example, muscle growth is largely supported by proteins and amino acids, blood clotting is primarily associated with vitamin K, and energy metabolism is regulated by B vitamins and other nutrients. Thus, the correct understanding of vitamin A’s functions reinforces its importance in vision health and immunological support.