VITAMIN E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects body tissue from damage caused by unstable substances called free radicals. Free radicals can harm cells, tissues, and organs. They are believed to lay a role in certain conditions associated with aging.
Vitamin E is also important in the formation of red blood cells and helps the body to use vitamin K.
The ability of vitamin E to prevent cancer, heart disease, dementia, liver disease, and stroke are still not known. At lower levels, vitamin E may help protect the heart.
The best way to get enough essential vitamins is to eat a balanced diet that contains a variety of foods.
Source: National Library of Medicine, Medline Plus 2008
Vitamin E and Heart Disease
Antioxidants such as vitamin E (also called tocopherol) protect cells in the body from oxidation. Oxidation is a process that leads to cell damage. It may play an important role in atherosclerosis -- the development of plaque in blood vessels that can cause heart disease and stroke.
Eating foods rich in antioxidants (like vitamin E and vitamin C, carotenoids, and selenium) may lower your risk of heart disease. Such foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. According to studies, however, taking extra anti-oxidant pills is probably NOT beneficial.
The current recommendation by the American Heart Association is to make sure you include these important nutrients in your diet, but not to take supplements. Because foods rich in vitamin E and selenium are high in fat, you may want to work with a dietitian to find the best food sources for you.
