All You Need to Know About Vitamin E
All You Need to Know About Vitamin E

All You Need to Know About Vitamin E

Why is vitamin E good for us? Are you concerned that you're not getting enough or need to take a supplement? Which foods are the best sources of it? Read on to find out more about vitamin E.

What is vitamin E? What are the health benefits of it?

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for the proper functioning of our bodies. It is actually a group of compounds that includes 8 different forms of vitamin E compounds (α-, β-, γ- and δ-tocopherols, and α-, β-, γ- and δ-tocotrienols), of which α-tocopherol is the only one used by the body. Vitamin E is essential to our health with the following key benefits:

  • Providing antioxidant protection

Vitamin E is well known for its antioxidant properties, which protect cells from free radical damage and reduce oxidative stress in the body. This may help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

  • Maintaining immune system health

Vitamin E plays an important role in maintaining a healthy immune system. It helps regulate the immune response and strengthens the body's ability to fight off infections and diseases.

  • Supporting nervous system health

Vitamin E may play a role in maintaining the health of the nervous system. Some studies suggest that it may help protect nerve cells and support cognitive function.

  • Supporting skin health

Vitamin E can help repair the skin, reduce inflammation, and protect the skin from damage caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants. Due to its potential to support skin health, it is often included in skin care products.

  • Supporting heart health

Some studies suggest that vitamin E may play a role in cardiovascular health by preventing the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease.

  • Supporting eye health

Studies have shown that vitamin E may also reduce the risk of two common eye diseases, age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

How much vitamin E do I need?

The recommended daily intake of vitamin E differs according to factors such as life stage and sex. The recommended amounts for vitamin E range from 4 mg daily for infants 0-6 months of age, to 15 mg daily for adults. Typical recommended daily intake are provided below.

  • Birth to 6 months: 4 mg
  • Infant (7-12 months): 5 mg
  • Children (1-3 years): 6 mg
  • Children (4-8 years): 7 mg
  • Children (9-13 years): 11 mg
  • Teens (14-18 years): 15 mg
  • Adults (18 years and older): 15 mg
  • Pregnant individuals: 15 mg
  • Breastfeeding individuals: 19 mg

*Notably, these recommendations are based on the α-tocopherol form of vitamin E, which is the most bioactive form.

What are the sources of vitamin E?

Vitamin E is found naturally in a wide variety of foods including animal products, vegetables and seeds. Here are some common food sources of vitamin E:

  • Vegetable oils: Vegetable oils such as wheat germ oil, sunflower oil, olive oil, and palm oil are the best sources of vitamin E. Corn and soybean oils also provide some vitamin E.
  • Nuts and seeds: Nuts (e.g. peanuts, hazelnuts, and especially almonds) and seeds (e.g. sunflower seeds) are also a good source of Vitamin E.
  • Green vegetables: Spinach, broccoli, and kale are leafy green vegetables that provide vitamin E. These vegetables do not contain as much vitamin E as other sources, but they can meet your daily intake.
  • Whole grains: Foods such as whole grain breads, brown rice, and quinoa provide moderate amounts of vitamin E.
  • Other foods: Food companies add vitamin E to some breakfast cereals, juices, margarines and spreads, and other foods. To find out which products contain vitamin E, check the product label.

In most cases, a well-balanced diet usually provides the body with enough vitamin E. However, those who consume a very low-fat diet or have a health condition that makes it hard for them to absorb fat may have difficulty getting enough vitamin E. Alfa Chemistry is an expert in the field of dietary supplements, and we offer high-quality vitamin E. Please feel free to contact us with your needs.

Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.

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