What is Vitamin E good for?

Tuesday, April 25, 2023

What is vitamin E?

Vitamin E, also known as alpha-tocopherol, is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of cell membranes and protecting the body's tissues from damage caused by free radicals. 

Acting as a potent antioxidant, Vitamin E neutralizes harmful free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and damage DNA, proteins and lipids in the body.

Furthermore, Vitamin E supports the immune system by enhancing the function of immune cells and promoting the production of antibodies.

What is Vitamin E good for?

  • Vitamin E: Fights free radicals and oxidative stress 
  • Vitamin E: Supports your immune system
  • Vitamin E: Skin Health & Anti-aging
  • Vitamin E: Hair Health

Vitamin E: Fights free radicals and oxidative stress

Vitamin E holds an essential and important position in the overall antioxidant defense. It  is an effective antioxidant which has a hydrophobic nature and membrane permeability which enhances application and bioavailability.

Vitamin E is renowned as one of the most potent antioxidants in nature. The antioxidant property is based on its ability to rapidly transfer its phenolic hydrogen atom to neutralize free radicals.

Free radicals, reactive and unstable molecules, are made by the body naturally as a byproduct of metabolism. Free radicals can also be present in the body after exposure to toxins in the environment:  tobacco smoke, ultraviolet (UV) light.

Vitamin E: Supports your immune system 

Vitamin E has anti-inflammatory properties which may play a role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of various health conditions. Vitamin E's ability to reduce inflammation in the body may help decrease the risk of these conditions.

Vitamin E is found in higher concentration in immune cells compared to other cells in  blood. It is a very effective nutrient which is known to modulate the immune function. This is in part due to its protective action against oxidation of immune cells. Immune cells have oxidative stress due to their high metabolic activity and normal defense against pathogens.

Overall, Vitamin E's health benefits are diverse and encompass various aspects of overall well-being.

Vitamin E: Hair Health

Vitamin E's antioxidant properties help protect the hair follicles from free radical damage, which can contribute to hair loss and thinning.

Vitamin E's moisturizing properties can help combat dryness and promote a healthy scalp. A well-hydrated scalp is essential for maintaining healthy hair growth and preventing conditions such as dandruff and scalp irritation.

Incorporate hair care products that contain this essential nutrient. Look for shampoos, conditioners and hair masks with Vitamin E to nourish and strengthen your hair from root to tip. Additionally, you can apply Vitamin E oil directly to your scalp and hair as a deep conditioning treatment.

Incorporating Vitamin E-rich foods into your diet, such as nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables, can provide the necessary nutrients for healthy hair. If you are considering a Vitamin E supplement consulting with a healthcare professional, they can help optimize your hair's health and vitality.

Vitamin E: Skin Health & Anti-aging

The Vitamin E antioxidant properties help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, environmental pollutants and UV radiation. This can help prevent premature aging, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and promote a youthful glow.

Vitamin E's moisturizing properties also make it an excellent ingredient for dry, sensitive and dehydrated skin. It helps lock in moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and supple. 

Furthermore, Vitamin E's ability to promote collagen production can help improve skin elasticity and firmness. Collagen is a protein that gives the skin its structure and strength.

Look for skincare products that contain this powerful ingredient. Vitamin E can be found in moisturizers, serums, and oils

Incorporate Vitamin E into your diet: Which food is rich in Vitamin E

Nuts and Seeds, such as almonds, sunflower seeds and hazelnuts. These make for convenient and nutritious snacks that can help boost your Vitamin E intake. 

Vegetable Oils, such as sunflower oil and olive oil, are rich sources of Vitamin E.

Leafy Green Vegetables, such as spinach and Swiss chard, are also packed with Vitamin E. These versatile veggies can be enjoyed in salads, stir-fries, or smoothies. 

Other food sources of Vitamin E include avocados, whole grains, and fortified cereals. 

If you struggle to meet your Vitamin E requirements through diet alone, supplementation may be an option. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before starting any supplementation regimen.

How much Vitamin E per day?

Vitamin E supplements are widely available and can be a convenient way to ensure an adequate intake of this essential nutrient. However, it's crucial to choose high-quality supplements from reputable brands to ensure safety and efficacy.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for vitamin E for males and females ages 14 years and older is 15 mg daily (or 22 international units, IU), including women who are pregnant. Lactating women need slightly more at 19 mg (28 IU) daily.

It's important to note that excessive Vitamin E supplementation can have adverse effects. High doses of Vitamin E particularly from supplements may increase the risk of bleeding, as it has anticoagulant properties. 

Vitamin E Works Wonders

Nina Thakrar our qualified pharmacist, nutritionist and homeopath recommends these Vitamin E products for anti-ageing benefits and wellbeing:

VITAMIN E - SKIN CARE CREAMS:

Bio-Health Vitamin E Cream 50ml

Dr Organic Vitamin E Cream 50ml

Health Aid Vitamin E Cream 75ml

VITAMIN E - SKIN CARE OILS:

JASON:  for cuticles and rough patches on heels, knees and elbows

JasonVitamin E 14,000IU Skin Oil 30ml

Jason Vitamin E 32,000IU Skin Oil (Extra Strength) 30ml  

Jason Vitamin E Skin Oil 45,000IU (Maximum Strength) 59ml

Dr Organic Vitamin E Pure Oil Complex 50ml

Fushi Really Good Vitamin E Oil 50ml  

Health Aid Pure Vitamin E Oil 50ml

VITAMIN E - SKIN CARE SERUMS:

Dr Organic Vitamin E Scar & Stretch Serum 50ml

VITAMIN E - HAIR CARE:

Dr Organic Vitamin E Shampoo 265ml  

Dr Organic Organic Vitamin E Conditioner 265ml

VITAMIN E - LIP CARE:

 Dr Organic Organic Vitamin E Lip Balm SPF15 5.7ml

SUPPLEMENTS:

Vitamin E - 60 Softgels | Integrative Therapeutics

Gamma E with Tocopherols & Tocotrienols - 60 Softgels | Life Extension

Gamma E Mixed Tocopherols - 60 Softgels | Life Extension

Tocopherol & Tocotrienol Complex - 60 Capsules | Cytoplan

Gamma-E Select - 60 Softgels | Moss Nutrition

Vitamin E - 60 Softgels | Integrative Therapeutics

TocoPure D&G (High Potency Tocotrienols) - 60 Softgels | Researched Nutritionals

VITAMIN E - SNACKS - SEEDS AND NUTS:

Lifeforce Organics Activated Almonds (Organic) 1kg 

Lifeforce Organics Activated Sunflower Seeds (Organic) 1kg 

Lifeforce OrganicsActivated Hazelnuts (Organic) 1kg

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