How much vitamin A is required for the human body per day?

The human body requires 700–900 mcg RAE (retinol activity equivalents) of vitamin A daily for adults, varying by sex and life stage.

Adult Requirements

Men aged 19+ need 900 mcg RAE per day, while women need 700 mcg RAE; pregnant women require 770 mcg, and lactating women need 1,300 mcg. These amounts support vision, immune function, and skin health, primarily from diet (liver, carrots, spinach).

Children and Infants

Children aged 1–3 years need 300 mcg RAE, rising to 400 mcg for ages 4–8 and 600 mcg for 9–13; infants get 400–500 mcg via adequate intake levels. Most people meet needs through food, as the body stores excess fat-soluble vitamin A.

Upper Limits

Do not exceed 3,000 mcg RAE daily from supplements or retinol sources to avoid toxicity risks like nausea or liver damage.

Group Daily Amount (mcg RAE)
Adult Men 900
Adult Women 700
Pregnant Women 770
Lactating Women 1,300
Children 1-3 yrs 300

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