The Power of Vitamin E
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.
