Vitamin E

What is Vitamin E?

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient composed of a group of compounds known as tocopherols and tocotrienols. It is highly recognised for its powerful antioxidant properties that protect cells from harmful oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Vitamin E can be naturally found in a wide variety of foods, including plant oils, nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables.

Health Benefits:

Antioxidant Action

Vitamin E is an antioxidant meaning that it scavenges free radicals and helps to limit oxidative stress. This is key to supporting health as oxidative stress can be highly damaging to cellular structures. Research shows that oxidative stress is linked to aging and the development of chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, neurological disease, respiratory disease and cancer.

Boosts Immune System Function

Vitamin E is a vital contributor to healthy immune system function. Studies show that deficiency in vitamin E can have highly detrimental effects on humoral and cell mediated immune functions which leaves the body susceptible to a wide variety of infections. Research also indicates that vitamin E supplementation may benefit the immune system, for instance by improving T cell mediated functions and enhancing natural killer cell activity.

Promotes Cardiovascular Health

Vitamin E consumption may be key to promoting cardiovascular health, particularly through its antioxidant action that protects cell membranes, preventing the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein which can contribute to cardiovascular disease progression. Evidence shows that high dietary intake of vitamin E is associated with reduced risks of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality, with one study finding that greater vitamin E intake was associated with lower risk of coronary disease in men.

Supports Cognitive Function

The impressive antioxidant abilities of vitamin E may also be able to support cognitive function and health. One study found that low dietary vitamin E consumption of elderly individuals was associated with poorer cognitive function and a greater number of mistakes during a measure of cognitive capacity. A further study found that vitamin E supplementation may delay the clinical progression of Alzheimer's disease symptoms.