Information and Facts

Facts about Vitamin E including Uses and Benefits, Foods containing, Deficiency causes and side effects.

General | Description |  Foods containing Vitamin E | Vitamin E Uses |Symptoms of Vitamin E Deficiency | Who Should take Vitamin E? | Diagnosis of Vitamin E Deficiency | Symptoms of Vitamin E Toxicity | Vitamin E Interaction with other substances | Vitamin E Storage | Retaining Vitamin E | Buy Vitamin E

The term Vitamin E applies to a family of eight related compounds, each with its own biological activity, potency and functional use in the body. The tocopherols and the tocotrienols are the  most common but the tocotrienols are less widely distributed in nature and are found mainly in palm oil. 

Chemical Name:  The form of vitamin E most active in humans is Alpha-tocopherol, a powerful biological antioxidant. The name Alpha-tocopherol [tocopherol comes from the Greek word tokos 'birth' and phero 'to bear'].  

Vitamin E Chemical Structure, C26H44O2

Vitamin E and other antioxidants protect the cells of the body from the effects of free radicals, the potentially damaging by-products of the body’s metabolism. Free radicals have been known to cause cell damage which can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer. 

 Four are found naturally:

• d-alpha tocopherol, C29H50O2 is 5,7,8,-trimethyltocol, the strongest vitamin E activity
• d-beta tocopherol, C28H48O2 is 5,8,-trimethyltocol
• d-delta tocopherol, C27H46 O2 is 8,-trimethyltocol
• d-gamma tocopherol, C28H48O2 is 7,8,-trimethyltocol

from natural sources, and

• dl-alpha tocoperol

from synthetic sources.

The structure is that of the tocopherols. These are methylated derivatives of tocol.

DESCRIPTION 

Fat soluble vitamin, which may be destroyed by freezing and extreme heat.

FUNCTION

• affects the synthesis of hemoglobin
• antioxidant protecting cellular membranes from oxidative damage by preventing lipid oxidation, especially the peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids, cholesterol and other free radicals
• essential for fertility and reproduction
• involved in red blood cell formation
• limits the oxidation of low density lipoproteins (LDL)-cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol)  [which causes blockages in coronary arteries that may lead to atherosclerosis and heart attacks]
• may block the formation of nitrosamines [carcinogens formed in the stomach from nitrites consumed in the diet]
• may protect against the development of cancers by enhancing immune function 
• prevents breakdown of body tissues
• protects vitamin A and essential fatty acids from oxidation in the body cells 
• synthesis and maintenance of red blood cells and their constituents
  
  

VITAMIN E DOSAGE: The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is the average daily dietary intake  is enough to meet the nutrient requirements of nearly all healthy individuals. In the USA it is the *Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

*1 mg alpha-tocopherol  is equivalent to = 1.5 IU

In general most adults in the USA, get enough vitamin E from their normal diets to meet the RDA. Eating a variety of foods that contain vitamin E is the best way to get an adequate amount. Healthy individuals who eat a balanced diet and follow the Dietary Guidelines rarely need supplement.

*Dietary Guidelines for Americans:

• Balance the food you eat with physical activity--maintain or improve your weight
• Choose a diet low in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol
• Choose a diet moderate in salt and sodium
• Choose a diet moderate in sugars
• Choose a diet with plenty of grain products, vegetables, and fruits
• Eat a variety of foods
• If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation

Caution:  Low-fat diets can substantially decrease Vitamin E intakes if some vegetable oils are not included in the dietary program.

FOODS CONTAINING VITAMIN E

• avocados
• carrots
• Cheese, especially Parmesan, Cheddar
• chickpeas
• egg yolk
• fats and oils
• green leafy vegetables - spinach, brussel sprouts
• vegetable oil
• legumes
• margarine
• meats/poultry/fish
• nuts and nut oils
• oatmeal
• olives
• parsnips
• red peppers
• seeds
• soy products and soya beans
• sweet corn,
• sweet potatoes
• tomatoes
• watercress
• wheat germ

Foods that contain small amounts of vitamin E, but are not considered good food sources, can contribute significant amounts of vitamin E to an individual's diet if these foods are eaten often or in large amounts.

Information Source The Dictionary of Vitamins compiled and written by Leonard Mervyn B.Sc., C.Chem., F.R.S.C

USED FOR

Vitamin E protects against the ill effects of:

• smog
• smoking
• sun

Vitamin E and cataracts:

Cataracts are growths on the lens of the eye that cloud vision. They increase the risk of disability and blindness in aging adults. Antioxidants such as Vitamin E may help prevent or delay cataract growth. Smoking is a major risk factor for developing cataracts.

Internally Vitamin E:

• eases symptoms of bee stings
• enhances sexual performance 
• heals burns and wounds
• helps anemia
• helps overcome infertility
• helps prevent certain cancers ( prostate, breast, colon cancers)
• helps prevent eye and lung problems in underweight or premature infants
• helps prevents hair loss
• helps prevents miscarriage
• helps prevent or delay coronary heart disease
• helps prevent the formation of blood clots
• helps reduce the size of cysts in women with fibrocystic breast disease
• helps relieve symptoms of muscular dystrophy
• improves muscle strength, stamina and athletic performance
• is helpful for people with atherosclerosis (or a very high risk of developing it)
• is used for liver spots on hands
• is used in the treatment of acne
• lowers risk of heart disease
• may help to decrease incidence of breast, colon and prostate cancer 
• prevents coronary artery disease in women
• prevents growth of tumors
• prevents or delays coronary heart disease
• prevents Vitamin E deficiency in premature or low birth weight babies
• promotes normal growth and development
• promotes normal red blood cell formation
• protects lungs against air pollution
• protects red blood cells from disintegrating
• relieves angina
• relieves circulatory problems of lower extremities
• relieves 'Restless Legs' syndrome
• relieves some symptoms of sickle-cell anemia
• relieves symptoms of menopause
• slows down heart degeneration 
• stabilizes and  protects membranes against free radical damage
• strengthens the immune system to assist in dealing with illnesses associated with old age

Vitamin E assists in the treatment of premenstrual tension where symptoms are associated with:

• breast tenderness
• water retention

Caution: Sometimes Vitamin E can cause:

• abdominal pain
• blurred vision 
• breast enlargement
• dizziness 
• diarrhea
• influenza-like symptoms
• headache
• nausea 
• tiredness
• weakness

Discontinue Vitamin E should any of the above occur.

Externally Vitamin E:

• decreases scarring
• eases bursitis
• eases symptoms of bee stings 
• heals burns and wounds
• helps prevents hair loss
• helps relieve symptoms of muscular dystrophy
• is used in the treatment of acne
• is used for liver spots on hands
• prevents aging of the skin by protecting tissue against oxidation
• reduces diaper rash
• relieves circulatory problems of lower extremities

Vitamin E soothes and protects tissues of the:

• breast
• calf muscle
• eye
• liver
• skin

and is used in many skin ointments, salves and creams.   

Caution:  Sometimes topical application can cause minor irritation

WHO SHOULD TAKE VITAMIN E?

• Anyone with dietary intake problems or increased nutritional requirements
• Individuals who cannot absorb fat*, such as in Crohn’s disease or Abetalipoproteinemia  (a rare disorder)  
• People over over 55 years (especially women)
• People suffering from drug or alcohol abuse  
• People with hyperthyroidism
• People under excess stress 
• People who have a chronic wasting illness
• Severe burns or injuries victims
• Those who have recently undergone surgery (especially to remove part of the gastrointestinal tract)

Do not take Vitamin E if you have:

• an allergic reaction to Vitamin E
• bleeding or clotting problems
• Cystic fibrosis (unless under strict professional guidance)
• intestinal problems
• iron-deficiency anemia
• liver disease
• overactive thyroid

SYMPTOMS OF DEFICIENCY

In Adults:

• apathy
• deposits of brown fat in body organs
• chest pain
• inability to concentrate
• increase in blood pressure with palpitations of the heart
• indigestion
• irritability
• lethargy
• loss of libido 
• muscle weakness
• neurological problems due to poor nerve activity
• no interest in physical activity
• no vitality
• premature aging

Vitamin E supplements may be necessary for:

• individuals who cannot absorb fat, such as in Crohn’s disease or Abetalipoproteinemia  (a rare disorder)
  
• individuals who have had part or all of their stomach removed

In these conditions symptoms of inability to absorb fat can be:

• chronic diarrhea
• degeneration of the retina which can result in blindness
• greasy stools
• muscle weakness
• poor transmission of nerve impulses

In Premature Babies, Infants and Children:

• edema (water retention)
• Hemolytic Anemia
• irritability

Vitamin E deficiency:

• can occur from having cirrhosis of the liver
• can result from alcoholism
• can sometimes occur after gastric or intestinal surgery
• develops from inefficient absorption of fats due to intestinal or pancreatic disease
• has been found in premature, very low birth weight infants (weighing less than 1500 grams [3 1/2 pounds]) 
• is seen in individuals with rare disorders of fat metabolism 

It may be caused from:

• Celiac Disease
• cystic fibrosis
• excessive intake of mineral oils, such as paraffin
• excessive intake of polyunsaturated fats
• excessive oxygen inhalation
• fat metabolism disorders
• obstructive jaundice
• tropical sprue

DIGNOSIS OF DEFICIENCY

A red blood cell fragility test is carried out and blood tocopherol levels are  determined. If there is excess creatine in the urine muscle breakdown is indicated.

SYMPTOMS OF TOXICITY

Very high doses of Vitamin E (over 800 units/day) causes:

• altered immune responses
• altered metabolism of thyroid, pituitary and adrenal hormones
• impaired sex functions
• increased risk of blood clots

Caution: should any of the above occur

• consult your health practitioner 
• discontinue Vitamin E

INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER SUBSTANCES

Antacids:

• decrease Vitamin E absorption

Anti-coagulants, coumarin- or indandione-type (blood thinners):

• increase spontaneous or hidden bleeding.

Cholestyramine:

• decreases absorption of Vitamin E

Colestipol:

• decreases absorption of Vitamin E

Iron supplements: 

• decrease Vitamin E effect in healthy people

Mineral oils:

• decrease absorption of Vitamin E

Sucralfate:

• decreases absorption of Vitamin E

Vitamin E:

• decreases effect of iron supplement in people with iron-deficiency anemia
• maintains the biological integrity, facilitates absorption, storage and utilization of Vitamin A and reduces potential toxicity of Vitamin A 
• works well combined with other antioxidants, such as Vitamin C and Selenium.  

Excessive doses of Vitamin E:

• causes Vitamin A depletion

Tobacco:

• decreases absorption of Vitamin E, so smokers may require supplemental Vitamin E

Chronic alcoholism:

• depletes Vitamin E stores in liver

STORAGE

• Do not freeze
• Do not store in bathroom medicine cabinet as heat and moisture may alter the chemical action of Vitamin E
• Store in a cool, dry area away from direct light
• Store safely out of reach of children

How to Prepare Foods to Retain Vitamin E

Vitamin E can be lost from foods during:

• cooking
• preparation
• storage

To retain vitamin E:

• Store foods in airtight containers and avoid exposing them to light
• Use whole-grain flours
  
  

A range of Vitamin E Products can be purchased from Global Herbal Supplies - Click Here

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More Vitamin Information: 

Beta Carotene  ||  Biotin  ||  Choline & Choline/ Inositol  ||  Folic Acid  ||  Inositol  ||  Multivitamins  ||  Vitamin A  ||  Vitamin B-1 (Thiamin)  ||  Vitamin B-12 (Cyanocobalamin)  ||  Vitamin B-2 (Riboflavin)  ||  Vitamin B-3(Niacin)  ||  Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid)  ||  Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine)  ||  Vitamin B-Complex  ||  Vitamin C/ Bioflavonoids  ||  Vitamin D  ||  Vitamin E  ||  Vitamin K