Vitamin E is a commonly known vitamin, but what is it and why do we need it? Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and an antioxidant that exists in eight different forms. The best form overall is
natural mixed tocopherols, the type found in food. Unlike many other
vitamins and minerals, the manufactured version of alpha-tocopherol vitamin E is not identical to the
natural form. It is less active and less effective. Therefore it takes more vitamin E from supplements to be as effective as vitamin E from
natural foods. Of course liquid supplements that contain
natural vitamin E will obviously be more effective than pills, especially the factory-made version. Vitamin E and
oil soluble vitamin that stays with you
24 hours a day, not like other
vitamins such as vitamin C which is only in your
body for about 8 hours a day. Vitamin E is know to protect cells against the effects of
free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to the development of
cardiovascular disease and cancer. It has also been shown to
play a role in immune function, DNA
repair and other metabolic processes. Vitamin E is often dubbed the “fix-it-all vitamin.” Although some research is inconclusive this some researchers believe it can significantly reducing the risk of arthritis, restless leg syndrome, heavy menstruation, hepatitis, eye tissue inflammation, diabetes, arteriosclerosis, fibromylagia,
male and female infertility, Parkinson's disease, menopause,
hair loss, osteoarthritis, pre-menstrual syndrome, and
Alzheimer's disease (to name a few). Besides being a powerful antioxidant vitamin E has several benefits: it reduces signs of aging, supports normal
cell division, supports sexual vitality and protects the skin. Studies have also concluded that it helps support
heart health. According to a research
study at the University of Cambridge, 2,000 patients with
heart disease who took vitamin E supplements reduced the
disease 75%. There are certain
foods that contain vitamin E, they include: Vegetable oils, nuts, green leafy vegetables and fortified cereals. The recommended intake of vitamin E for
men and
women ages 14 and older is 15 mg a day, which is equal to 2 ounces of dry roasted almonds or 4 tablespoon of smooth vitamin fortified peanut butter. Vitamin E deficiencies usually are rare. They tend to occur mostly in premature babies, people who cannot absorb dietary fats, and people with rare
fat metabolism disorders. The main
symptoms of a Vitamin E deficiency are neurological
problems resulting from poor nerve conduction. Vitamin E is also commonly known as a healing agent for cuts and bruises, however, it is not internally consumed to bring these benefits. Buying vitamin E caplets for your first aid kit can help with minor injuries and prevent excessive scaring. Including vitamin E in your
diet can be a benefit to your overall health. Eating
foods rich in vitamin E will help ensure a
healthy heart,
healthy cells and
healthy skin. Make sure you get your daily dosage of vitamin E and enjoy good health.
