What is Vitamin E?

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin. It prevents cell membrane damage by inhibiting the oxidation of fats and the formation of damaging free radicals. It also helps to protect other fat-soluble vitamins from damage.

What is vitamin E found in?

Wheatgerm oil, dark green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds, legumes, avocados, eggs, fish, cold pressed vegetable oils.

Note: Cold-pressed vegetable oils are popular because they are made without using high heat or chemicals. Cold-pressed vegetable oils are generally free of trans fats. Trans fats are artificially created during a process called hydrogenation, which is not typically used in the production of cold-pressed oils.

What are the specific benefits of vitamin E?

Synergy

Vitamin E works closely with selenium and vitamin C, it is required for the maintenance of a healthy heart and circulation, contributing to the prevention of heart disease and blood clotting.

Fertility and foetal development

Vitamin E plays a role in supporting fertility and healthy pregnancies as well as maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails.

Nerve health

Vitamin E has been shown to play a role in nerve health, by maintaining neurological structure and function. Vitamin E is also important for brain health, studies have shown a protective role in various neurological disorders and diseases.

Hormonal benefits

For the menopause, taking Vitamin E may help to relieve hot flushes and other symptoms. Many nutritionists utilise 800iu per day in treatment programmes.

Healthy skin

For skin health Vitamin E may help reduce UV damage and reduce facial wrinkles, as it is one of the key antioxidants contained within the epidermis, the first line of defence for the skin against environmental damage.

What does vitamin E deficiency or insufficiency look like?

It is uncommon for a person to be truly deficient in vitamin E, but a dietary lack of vitamin E is common and can manifest as dry skin and hair, muscular weakness and reproductive issues.

Precautions

Side effects can include nausea, fatigue, headache, and an increased risk of bleeding, especially in people on blood-thinning medications or with certain medical conditions.

Discuss any potential risks or interactions with medications or existing health conditions with a nutritional therapist of GP.