Nutrients
Vitamin A (Retinol)
Unit: μg/dLID: N014
What This Test Measures
Vision, immune function, skin health, gene expression
Conventional vs. Functional Optimal Range
Conventional "Normal"
30-80 μg/dLYour doctor says you're "fine" anywhere in this range
Functional Optimal
57-66 μg/dLThis is where you actually feel great
The gap between these ranges is why you feel terrible with "normal" labs. Conventional medicine waits for disease. Functional medicine optimizes for health.
Gabriel's Take
Gabriel's optimal band for vitamin A is 57-66. Low (<40) = immune dysfunction, night blindness, dry skin. Many vegetarians are deficient: beta-carotene from plants converts poorly to retinol. Functional medicine uses preformed vitamin A (retinol) from animal sources or supplements.
When This Test Is High
Toxicity (rare, >100)
When This Test Is Low
Deficiency: night blindness, immune dysfunction, skin issues
Related Conditions
Immune deficiency, vision problems, skin disorders
Recommended Follow-Up
If low, increase liver, eggs, dairy; supplement retinol (not just beta-carotene)