Vitamin E
WHAT IS VITAMIN E?
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that plays a crucial role in protecting cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. It helps maintain healthy skin, eyes, and immune function by neutralizing harmful molecules in the body that can contribute to aging and disease. Vitamin E also supports the body’s ability to heal wounds, maintain tissue integrity, and prevent inflammation. It can be found in a variety of foods, including nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and leafy greens, and is often used in skincare products due to its ability to promote skin health and reduce signs of aging.
WHICH FOODS CONTAIN VITAMIN E?
Vegetable oils, such as canola oil or olive oil, are considered rich in vitamin E. But other foods like avocado, flaxseed, asparagus, spinach, sweet potatoes and various nuts are all good options.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF TAKING VITAMIN E?
Antioxidant
Vitamin E is one of the most important antioxidants. That's because it can protect the cells from oxidative stress (a.k.a. out-of-control free radicals). This means that your cells are protected from UV rays, exhaust fumes, and other harmful factors.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
According to studies, Vitamin E can reduce inflammation and prevent diseases such as arteriosclerosis and even cancer. It also has positive effects on the skin. In protecting against UV rays, it prevents premature aging. Due to its anti-inflammatory effect, it’s used in the cosmetics industry as a wound-healing agent.
Energy boost
Vitamin E benefits your blood by helping to boost red blood cells. Red blood cells are essential cells which carry oxygen from your lungs, in the blood, to the rest of the body. Without this vital function, your body cannot make energy.
EXPERT ADVICE
NASSIM JAMALZADEH
"You can actually call vitamin E the cell protection vitamin because of its antioxidant effect; it can protect the cells from oxidative stress. Therefore, the intake of vitamin E is particularly important, and I can only recommend it to everyone."
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FAQS ABOUT VITAMIN E
This varies from person to person. If you consume plenty through your diet and can, therefore, cover your daily needs, additional intake is not necessary. It's best to ask your doctor and have regular blood work done.
This depends mainly on gender and age, as well as other factors, such as whether you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any illnesses. However, the NHS (National Health Service) recommends a daily amount of 3-15mg. It’s important to note that the NHS provides recommended and not maximum amounts.
An overdose of vitamin E is very rare. Nevertheless, the maximum amounts should be observed. The tolerable amount is 300 mg/ per day (Tolerable Upper Intake Level/EFSA). Exceeding this amount can lead to gastrointestinal issues and even an increased risk of bleeding. However, an insufficient intake of vitamin E can also have various health consequences in muscle metabolism and the nervous system.
