Recent study has revealed that many British women may suffer from deficiency of vitamin A without being aware of it. Study indicated that around half women in Britain may suffer from a genetic defect which could lead to lack of vitamin A in body.

Vitamin A is very important for body as it helps the immune system in fighting common infections such as flu. It is also vital for healthy skin. Dairy products and eggs are rich source of vitamin A. Another important source is beta-carotene, the orange pigment in carrots. Beta-carbonate is converted into the vitamin A in the body.

However presence of a gene mutation can block ability of body to produce vitamin A from beta-carotene. In the recent study, research team from the University of Newcastle studied DNA of 62 women.

Data analysis showed that 29 women carried the gene mutation that hinders the conversion of beta-carotene into vitamin A. This study holds importance as many women eat carrots or take beta-carotene supplements for vitamin A.

Lead researcher, Dr Georg Lietz said: "Vitamin A is incredibly important - particularly at this time of year when we are all trying to fight off the winter colds and flu. It boosts our immune system and reduces the risk of inflammation such as that associated with chest infections."