Vitamin E

How You May Benefit:

Slow the degeneration of tissues to decrease the signs and symptoms of aging, which comes from normal cell damage
Detoxify the body
Protect lungs from environmental toxins
Fight free radicals
Protect cell membranes to reduce free-radical damage, specifically in the heart, muscles, and glands
Improve cardiovascular health
Support other essential nutrients, by preventing their breakdown, ensuring a healthy heart
Enhance antioxidant status
Improve skin, hair, nails, and eyesight, which are more sensitive to oxidation and the natural effects of aging

Overview

One of the most highly acclaimed antioxidant vitamins, Vitamin E is absolutely essential for our survival and is a must-have for our daily regimen. As a scavenger of free radicals, this fat-soluble vitamin appears to be powerfully effective against deterioration of cells and is especially revered for decreasing signs of aging. Usually found in a high-quality multivitamin/mineral or antioxidant formula, the natural form (d-alpha-tocopherol) is notably best.

Usage

Amount: Anywhere from 400 to 1,200 IU's, taken daily, is a typical range. The more active the person, the greater amount the body may need.

Tip: Many experts suggest the natural d-alpha-tocopherol, not the synthetic dl form, is best. Considering that the natural form has been shown to be up to 50 percent more potent than dl-alpha-tocopherol (a synthetic version), it might be an obvious choice, so read the label closely on the multivitamin or antioxidant formula.

Timing: Vitamin E is ideally taken in the a.m. before breakfast and/or at night before bed with food.

Vitamin E is an extraordinary antioxidant that is vital for all people, especially those who place greater physical demands and stress on their bodies. During and after intense exercise, it helps boost immune function and reduce oxidative cell damage caused by free radicals. It can help athletes experiencing muscle fatigue after workouts diminish soreness and decrease recovery time and is essential as an antioxidant for those who are fighting illness or infection.

Safety Information

Toxicity:
Although Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin, toxicity is very rare.

Bans and Restrictions:
None reported.

References

Diplock, A.T., "Will the 'Good Fairies' Please Prove to Us that Vitamin E Lessens Human Degenerative Disease?" Free Radic Res 27.5 (1997) : 511-32.

Evstigneeva, R.P., et al., "Vitamin E as a Universal Antioxidant and Stabilizer of Biological Membranes," Membr Cell Biol 12.2 (1998) : 151-72.

Hartmann, A., et al., "Vitamin E Prevents Exercise-Induced DNA Damage," Mutat Res 346.4 (1995) : 195-202.

McBride, J.M., et al., "Effect of Resistance Exercise on Free Radical Production," Med Sci Sports Exerc 30.1 (1998) : 67-72.

Paolisso, G., et al., "Pharmacologic Doses of Vitamin E Improve Insulin Action in Healthy Subjects and Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabeitc Patients," Am J Clin Nutr 57 (1993) : 848-52.

Rokitzki, L., et al., "Alpha-Tocopherol Supplementation in Racing Cyclists During Extreme Endurance Training," Int J Sports Nutr 4.3 (1994) : 253-64.

Tauler, P., et al., "Diet Supplementation with Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and Beta-Carotene Cocktail Enhances Basal Neutrophil Antioxidant Enzymes in Athletes," Pflgers Archiv: European Journal Of Physiology 443.5-6 (2002) : 791-7.

Find the answers fast!

...with the world's most comprehensive online Supplement Review, with complete in-depth profiles on over 120 supplements at your fingertips!

View All Supplements