Vitamin A Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Management Vitamin A deficiency occurs when the body does not receive or absorb sufficient levels of Vitamin A to function correctly. Because Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin—meaning it is stored in your liver and body fat rather than being excreted daily—a deficiency typically develops gradually over an extended period. The causes of this deficiency generally fall into three primary categories: 1. Inadequate Dietary Intake This is the most common cause globally, particularly in regions where access to diverse, nutrient-dense food is limited. Lack of Vitamin A-Rich Foods: Diets relying heavily on staple grains (such as white rice) without supplemental fruits, vegetables, or animal products often result in insufficient levels. Restrictive Diets: Eating patterns that exclude dairy, eggs, fish, and colorful vegetables may fail to provide adequate amounts of preformed Vitamin A or provitamin A carotenoids. 2. Malabsorption Issues Even w...