Vitamin E Benefits
Getting the benefits or running low?
One of the major vitamin E benefits is protection. It acts as a very efficient antioxidant that is important in the prevention of cancer and heart disease. It improves circulation, is necessary for tissue repair and is also effective in treating premenstrual tension.
It promotes normal blood clotting and healing, reduces scarring from wounds, reduces blood pressure and aids in preventing cataracts. It is also known to help enhance athletic performance and reduce leg cramps.
It protects unsaturated fatty acid cells and cholesterol as well as protects proteins, especially those in hair and nails from damage. Vitamin E also prevents the unwanted oxidation of fat from free radicals.
What are the key vitamin E benefits and functions?
- Maintaining the life span and function of red blood cells, therefore helping to maintain optimum oxygen delivery and use
- Development and maintenance of nerve and muscle function
- Maintenance of the lens and retina in our eyes
- Reproductive functions including sperm motility
- May protect from colon cancer and other cancers
- Maintaining the function of white blood cells in the immune system
- Maintaining healthy balance of good and bad cholesterol
Vitamin E Foods
- Dark green leafy vegetables
- Legumes
- Whole grains
- Avocado
- Fresh nuts and seeds
- Virgin olive oil
- Wheatgerm oil
- Unprocessed and fresh plant oils
Good quantities of this vitamin are also found in brown rice, eggs, kelp, soybeans, sweet potatoes and watercress.
Vitamin E contained in lotions and creams can help the following skin conditions:
- Scars
- Stretch marks
- Sunburn
- Burns and scalds
What are the most common signs of vitamin E deficiency?
Possible deficiency symptoms include:
- Poor use of oxygen leading to lethargy and exhaustion and aching after exercise
- Poor concentration
- Some forms of anaemia
- Irritability
- Low sex drive
- Poor sperm motility
- Easy bruising
- Slow wound healing
- Age spots
- Cataracts
Is it possible to have a vitamin E overdose?
To date there are no known symptoms of vitamin E overdose, however there can be potential problems for certain people whose intake is more than recommended. The following people should be cautious with vitamin E supplements:
- Those taking blood-thinning medication
- Diabetics
- People with an under-active thyroid
- People suffering with rheumatic heart disease
- High blood pressure individuals – some amounts of vitamin E can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure
- Heavy and regular alcohol drinkers, as long term use of high doses could increase the risk of stroke.
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