Vitamin E
Vitamin E is not just one vitamin. It is actually a name used to describe a group of fat-soluble compounds. These compounds are chemical forms known as alpha-, beta-, gamma-, delta-tocopherol, and alpha-, beta-, gamma- and delta-tocotrienol. Vitamin E is naturally found in some of the foods we eat, however, sometimes it is added to foods that it is not naturally found in. You can also find Vitamin E in supplemental form, usually in pills and oils. Our bodies recognize the chemical Alpha-tocopherol and it is the only one that is needed to meet our bodies requirements.
The antioxidants found in Vitamin E are used to protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. This damage to our cells is a contributing factor for cancers and cardiovascular diseases. Vitamin E has also been linked to helping with vision impairments, memory loss, Alzheimer’s Disease and many other conditions as well.
It seems that Vitamin E is the most beneficial when found in its natural form. When consuming Vitamin E in foods that it is already found in, it seems to work at its best. There are several foods that contain Vitamin E naturally. These include, sunflower seeds, sunflower oil, almonds, peanuts, hazelnuts, pine nuts, spinach, cottonseed oil, safflower oil, tomato paste, wheat germ, avocado, mustard greens, turnip greens, kale, and collard greens. There are also plenty of other foods that have Vitamin E added to them for added benefits.
Although Vitamin E can offer many benefits it is usually a good idea to take in conjunction with Vitamin C, Vitamin B3, selenium, and glutathione. These vitamins all work together to support one another. Vitamin E does not work to its full capability without these other vitamins. At the same time, it is also not a good idea to take an over abundance of Vitamin E. Usually no more than 1,000 milligrams per day should be taken of Vitamin E or it can begin to interfere with the bodies Vitamin K functions. Before deciding to take a Vitamin E supplement be sure to discuss with your doctor the amounts you should take in order to avoid causing problems. Also Vitamin E supplements should not be taken by those that have a Vitamin K deficiency. Vitamin E can interfere with the body’s ability to clot blood and therefore should not be taken in excess. Vitamin E can also interact with other medications and that are being taken by a person therefore it is important to discuss this with your doctor as well. Vitamin E supplements should not be taken by anyone that is about to undergo surgery.
People who are taking Vitamin E in abundance may begin to have Vitamin E toxicity. These symptoms can be different for each person but if you feel like you may be experiencing any strange symptoms after taking a lot of Vitamin E supplements then you should see your doctor to confirm that is the problem. No vitamin supplements should be taken without first discussing this with your doctor.
Vitamin E has also been used in topical form for treating the skin. Vitamin E used in lotions, creams and oils all offer benefits when it comes to keeping the skin healthy. It has been known to keep skin looking youthful and fresh along with helping to prevent sun damage and skin cancers. There are debates on whether Vitamin E can help fade scars from surgery or acne. Regardless, with Vitamin E’s antioxidants it helps to protect the body inside and out from free radicals that cause damage to our cells. When used in moderation, Vitamin E can offer many benefits.
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