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What Are Retinol & Calciferol?

Calciferol, another name for vitamin D, is a fat-soluble vitamin. Also a fat-soluble vitamin, retinol is an alcohol version of vitamin A found in animals, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC).

  1. Calciferol Functions

    • Calciferol's most prominent role is that of calcium supporter, according to UMMC. Vitamin D helps the body absorb and utilize calcium. It also supports a healthy immune system, according to UMMC.

    Retinol Functions

    • Vitamin A plays an essential role in cell reproduction, according to UMMC. During fetal development, retinol assists in heart, eye and ear development, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Retinol also supports normal vision.

    Recommend Intakes

    • According to MayoClinic.com, people over 10 should consume between 200 and 400 IU of vitamin D (5 to 10 mcg) per day. Men over 19 should consume around 3,000 IU (900 mcg) of retinol, and women over 19 should consume around 2,000 IU (700 mcg) of retinol per day, according to the Linus Pauling Institute.

    Considerations

    • Since retinol and calciferol are fat-soluble vitamins, there is an increased chance of toxicity because the body, according to the Colorado State University Extension, eliminates fat-soluble vitamins slowly. Excessive vitamin A poses additional risks to pregnant women, increasing the risks of serious birth defects, according to UMMC.

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