Vitamin E
What is Vitamin E?
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin known primarily for its antioxidant properties.
It exists in multiple forms, but the most active form in humans is alpha-tocopherol.
As an antioxidant, it helps protect cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
What does Vitamin E do in our body?
Protects cells from oxidative damage, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Supports immune function, helping the body fight off bacteria and viruses.
Promotes healthy skin and hair by improving circulation and acting as a moisturizer when applied topically.
Assists in cell signalling and gene expression, contributing to overall cellular health.
Plays a role in preventing blood clotting by widening blood vessels and inhibiting platelet aggregation.
Major Warning Signs of Vitamin E Deficiency
Muscle weakness due to oxidative damage to muscle cells.
Coordination and walking difficulties caused by nerve damage.
Vision problems such as blurred vision due to oxidative damage to the eyes.
Other Deficiency Symptoms in Vitamin E
Numbness or tingling in extremities.
Weakened immune function, leading to more frequent infections.
Fatigue or low energy levels due to poor circulation and cell damage.
Vitamin E Deficiency in the Immune System
Impaired immune response, making the body more susceptible to infections.
Reduced ability of the immune system to respond to pathogens effectively.
Vitamin E Deficiency in the Cardiovascular System
Increased risk of heart disease due to oxidative damage to blood vessels and cholesterol.
Higher likelihood of atherosclerosis (plaque build-up in arteries).
Vitamin E Deficiency in the Integumentary System
Dry and damaged skin due to a lack of moisture and protection from oxidative stress.
Premature aging signs, like wrinkles and fine lines, from decreased skin elasticity.
Vitamin E Deficiency in the Lymphatic System
Slower production of immune cells, leading to weakened lymphatic response.
Vitamin E Deficiency in the Endocrine System
Potential impact on the production of hormones, particularly those involved in reproduction and fertility.
Vitamin E Deficiency in the Muscular System
Muscle weakness and pain, especially after physical activity, due to cellular damage in muscles.
Vitamin E Deficiency in the Digestive System
In some cases, fat malabsorption conditions, like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease, may worsen vitamin E deficiency.
Vitamin E Deficiency in the Nervous System
Nerve degeneration and damage leading to conditions like peripheral neuropathy.
Poor coordination and reflexes due to damaged nerve cells.
Vitamin E Deficiency in the Skeletal System
Long-term deficiency could contribute to bone mass loss or weakening, although this is less common.
Vitamin E Deficiency in the Thyroid Pathway
Possible impact on thyroid hormone production, though more research is needed to fully understand this link.
It is required though in the Thyroid Pathway.
Vitamin E Deficiency in the Liver
Liver cells may be more susceptible to oxidative damage without sufficient vitamin E.
May lead to an increased risk of liver diseases over time.
Causes of Vitamin E Deficiency
Poor dietary intake, particularly in individuals who follow a very low-fat diet.
Conditions like fat malabsorption syndromes (e.g., cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease).
Genetic disorders that affect the body’s ability to absorb or transport vitamin E.
Physical Ailments Requiring more Vitamin E
Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
Cardiovascular conditions like heart disease.
Neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
Medications that Deplete Vitamin E
Cholesterol-lowering medications (statins) may reduce vitamin E levels.
Blood thinners like warfarin can interact with vitamin E, affecting its absorption or activity.
Natural Supplements that Deplete Vitamin E
High doses of vitamin A can interfere with vitamin E absorption.
Excessive intake of omega-3 fatty acids might compete with vitamin E in its role as an antioxidant.
Heavy Metals that Deplete Vitamin E
Lead and cadmium exposure can increase oxidative stress, depleting the body’s stores of vitamin E.
Other heavy metals like mercury can also increase the need for antioxidants like vitamin E.
Testing Vitamin E
Blood tests measure plasma vitamin E levels, typically looking at alpha-tocopherol concentration.
In cases of deficiency, testing may also include measuring oxidative stress markers.
Daily Requirements of Vitamin E
For adults, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) is 15 mg (22.4 IU) of alpha-tocopherol.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women may require slightly higher amounts.
Co-Factors Required for Vitamin E Absorption
Healthy fats are essential for the proper absorption of vitamin E, as it is fat-soluble.
Vitamin C can help regenerate oxidized vitamin E, boosting its effectiveness.
Foods High in Vitamin E
Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, sunflower seeds, and hazelnuts.
Plant oils like sunflower, safflower, and wheat germ oil.
Green leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli.
Things that Affect the Amount of Vitamin E in Our Food
Cooking methods: High heat can reduce the vitamin E content in food.
Storage: Prolonged storage of oils and nuts can lead to the degradation of vitamin E.
Other Random Information about Vitamin E
Vitamin E is also used topically in skincare products to reduce scars, stretch marks, and signs of aging.
It plays a protective role against environmental pollutants and UV radiation, contributing to overall skin health.
Excessive doses of vitamin E (over 1,000 mg/day) can cause problems with blood clotting and may interfere with certain medications.
Final Thoughts…
Vitamin E is second to glutathione as our master antioxidant, so like the fireman who puts out the inflammatory fires in our body. If we don’t have enough glutathione then the baton gets passed to Vitamin E to do the job. Since I personally have thyroid disease and lipedema… which are inflammatory diseases, any nutrients that decrease that inflammation is vital.
