| What are the benefits? | | Vitamin E, sometimes known as alpha-tocopherol, is a fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin, which helps to neutralise the effects of free radicals. Free radicals are the by-products of chemical reactions that take place in the body. They cause damage by interacting with cell membranes, proteins and cell DNA. Vitamin E and other antioxidants play a very important role by helping to prevent damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E is particularly important for healthy skin since free radicals caused by pollutants and sunlight can damage skin cells. Vitamin E may also affect the status of fats in the blood, helping to keep them in a healthy non-oxidised form. For this reason vitamin E may help maintain a healthy heart and circulation. Other areas in which the antioxidant effects of vitamin E are important are in eye health, the healing of wounds, and the health of muscles during exercise or immobility. | | What are the natural food sources? | | Since vitamin E is fat soluble, foods such as olive oil, nuts, seeds and butter, which are naturally high in fats, make particularly good sources. Other sources include cold pressed vegetable oils, dark green leafy vegetables, whole grains, brown rice, eggs and muesli or oatmeal. | | How much do you need? | | The recommended daily allowance for vitamin E is 10 mg, however a long-term intake of up to 800 mg daily is not considered harmful. | | Are you likely to be deficient? | | A severe deficiency of vitamin E may result in damage to red blood cells and destruction of nerves. Other signs of deficiency may include infertility (in both men and women), menstrual problems, neuromuscular impairment or spontaneous abortion. | | Are there any interactions? | | If you suffer from diabetes, rheumatic heart disease, or an overactive thyroid, then an intake above the recommended daily allowance is not recommended. Some prescription medicines may be affected by vitamin E. |
|
