6 Surprising Superfoods Rich in Vitamin A You Might Not Know About

1. Amaranth Leaves – The Ancient Indian Green Powerhouse

Amaranth leaves, locally known as chaulai ke patte in India, have been part of traditional diets for centuries. Packed with Vitamin A and antioxidants, these vibrant greens are excellent for improving eyesight and enhancing immunity. They are also rich in iron and fiber, making them a natural choice for those looking to boost energy levels and digestion.

You can enjoy amaranth leaves in curries, stir-fries, or even as a healthy addition to soups and stews. With their high nutrient density, they easily qualify as one of the best but lesser-known Vitamin A superfoods.

2. Red Palm Oil – A Rare Source of Beta Carotene

Red palm oil might not be a common household ingredient, but it is one of the richest natural sources of beta carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A. Its vibrant reddish-orange color is proof of its carotenoid content.

Used in small amounts, this oil can do wonders for skin health, keeping it soft and youthful. It also supports heart health and provides healthy fats that improve nutrient absorption. While it’s not widely used in everyday Indian kitchens, red palm oil is worth exploring as a nutritional boost.

3. Drumstick (Moringa) Leaves – Nature’s Multivitamin

Drumstick leaves, also called moringa leaves, are often referred to as a superfood for good reason. They contain exceptionally high levels of Vitamin A, along with calcium, iron, and protein. These leaves strengthen bones, enhance immunity, and support eye health.

Traditionally consumed in Indian households in the form of saag, chutneys, or dried leaf powder, moringa leaves are gaining global recognition as a nutritional powerhouse. Adding them to smoothies, soups, or teas is an easy way to reap their benefits.

4. Amla – Beyond Vitamin C

Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is famous for being one of the richest sources of Vitamin C. But what many don’t know is that it also contains a good amount of Vitamin A. This makes amla an excellent fruit for protecting eye health and preventing age-related vision decline.

Consuming raw amla, amla juice, or amla powder regularly not only boosts immunity but also keeps your skin radiant and youthful. Ayurveda has long regarded amla as a rasayana (rejuvenator), and modern science is now catching up with its multiple benefits.

5. Cod Liver Oil – The Ancient Supplement for Stronger Health

Cod liver oil has been used for generations as a natural supplement, particularly in colder regions. This oil is a rich source of both Vitamin A and Vitamin D—two essential nutrients for strong bones, better vision, and a resilient immune system.

Just a small spoonful provides more than the daily requirement of Vitamin A, making it one of the most concentrated natural sources available. While the taste might not appeal to everyone, modern capsules make it easier to include in your diet without the aftertaste.

6. Pumpkin Leaves – The Overlooked Treasure

While pumpkins are widely celebrated for their nutritional value, their leaves are often ignored. Pumpkin leaves are actually packed with Vitamin A, calcium, and iron. They help improve vision, promote skin glow, and boost energy levels.

In several Asian and African cuisines, pumpkin leaves are used in stews and stir-fries, offering a unique earthy flavor along with immense health benefits. Next time you buy pumpkin, don’t throw away the leaves—they might be even healthier than the fruit itself.

Why Vitamin A Matters

Vitamin A plays a vital role in multiple body functions, including:

Supporting good vision and preventing night blindness

Strengthening the immune system to fight infections

Maintaining healthy skin and tissues

Promoting growth and development in children

A deficiency in Vitamin A can lead to poor eyesight, weakened immunity, and even growth issues. That’s why including diverse Vitamin A-rich foods in your diet is essential.

Final Thoughts

Carrots and spinach may always be the first foods that come to mind when we think of Vitamin A, but nature offers many more hidden treasures. From humble amaranth leaves to the age-old cod liver oil, these underrated superfoods can transform your health in powerful ways.

By adding a mix of these six Vitamin A-rich foods to your daily meals, you can enjoy better vision, glowing skin, and stronger immunity—naturally and deliciously.