Vitamin E
What is Vitamin E?
Vitamin E collectively refers to the family of tocopherols and tocotrienols in the alpha, beta, delta, and gamma forms. A fat-soluble and essential nutrient, vitamin E is also a powerful antioxidant, and acts as a blood thinner. Antioxidants help to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals that cause ageing and disease. Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils, wheat germ, whole grains, leafy greens, eggs, nuts, avocado, asparagus and yams.
Although scientists know that vitamin E is important for good health, its exact role in the body is not entirely known. Research is ongoing.
Deficiency
Vitamin E deficiency is rare and does not occur with the consumption of a healthy diet. Deficiency results from the impaired ability to absorb fat and is related to some of the following conditions: pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, gallbladder diseases and billiary duct diseases.
Vitamin E deficiency triggers unpleasant physical symptoms, and may result in serious kidney or liver damage, or miscarriage if not treated promptly.
Health Benefits
In addition to being necessary for good health, vitamin E has been shown to have other benefits.
Studies have shown that vitamin E may help prevent or treat cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis by preventing cholesterol from forming artery-clogging plaque and improving blood flow. Research is mixed, however, and there is some controversy as to whether or not vitamin E actually has a positive effect on cardiovascular disease. More research is being conducted.
Low levels of vitamin E are associated with cancer. Animal studies have also shown vitamin E supplementation to inhibit the growth of certain cancers. More research is needed.
Vitamin E may also help in the prevention or treatment of photodermatitis, osteoarthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and pancreatitis. Supplementation of vitamin E is known to help protect eye health, ease symptoms of menopause, ease symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), help slow cell aging, improve wound healing, and slow the progress of Parkinson’s disease.
Usage Indications
Suggested for… |
Recommended Daily Dose |
Age 19+ |
15 mg (22.5 IU) |
Pregnancy |
15 mg (22.5 IU) |
Lactation |
19 mg (28.5 IU) |
For maximum absorption and effectiveness, pair vitamin E supplements with a selenium supplement.
Consult your physician before using any dietary supplements if you are currently taking any medications, as vitamin E may interact with other medications or drugs you are taking. Vitamin E has been known to interact with tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotic medications, blood thinners, beta blockers, chloroquine, cholesterol-lowering medications, cyclosporine, tamoxifen and orlistat.
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Product List for Vitamin E |
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