Vitamin E

Vitamin E Basics

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps to prevent cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, anemia, cataracts, age-related diseases (such as Alzheimer's), and macular degeneration (affects the retina and vascular membranes in the eyes).

This vitamin is important in the treatment of many cancers including throat, esophagus, stomach, colon, cervix, breast and the prostate gland. Vitamin E has been shown to protect healthy cells from the ravages of chemotherapy.

Research shows Vitamin E promotes healthy circulation, blood clotting, healing, reduces scarring, lowers blood pressure, maintains healthy nerves and muscles by strengthening capillary walls, and promotes healthy skin and hair.

As an antioxidant, Vitamin E inhibits the oxidation of fats and the formation of free radicals thereby protecting cell integrity. This means healthy cells live longer and cell damage is slowed.

Dosage Guidelines

Vitamin E is composed of eight related but different molecules divided into two groups: tocopherols and tocotrienols. The alpha-tocopherol form (synthetic Vitamin E) is the strongest.

This vitamin is available in soft gel, capsule, and tablet form in the following doses: 50 IU, 100 IU, 200 IU, 400 IU, 500 IU, 600 IU, and 1,000 IU. Always take vitamin E with water at mealtime.

• Adult dosage - 200 IU to 400 IU daily

Consult a medical professional prior to giving a child Vitamin E. See 'Cautions' below for possible complications.

Sources

Vitamin E is found in the following foods: cold-pressed vegetable oils, nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts), sunflower seeds, mayonnaise, spinach, kale, sweet potatoes, organ meats, watercress, and eggs.

Cautions

If anticoagulant medications (blood thinners such as Coumadin or Warfin) are taken, consult a medical professional prior to taking Vitamin E. Vitamin E inhibits the body's ability to absorb Vitamin K (aids in blood clotting), which may increase the risk of abnormal bleeding.

Persons diagnosed with diabetes, heart disease (such as high blood pressure), or an overactive thyroid should consult a medical professional first.

Although Vitamin E is general nontoxic, high doses may increase the force of heart contractions resulting in palpitations. Other symptoms include diarrhea, gas, and nausea.