Vitamin E is the common name used to represent the family of 4 tocotrienols and 4 tocopherols (α, β, γ, and δ), of which, α-tocopherols have been most studied and considered the highest in bioavailability. It is a fat-soluble antioxidant that prevents the formation of radical oxygen species during lipid oxidation reactions in our body. Continuous lipid oxidation by radical oxygens produced through the lipid peroxidation chain reaction can cause the break down of cell membranes. Vitamin E, then can be converted back to its original active form by other antioxidants such as ascorbate, retinol or ubiquitol.
In a study of more than 80,000 middle-aged women, there was a 40% reduced risk of coronary artery disease in those who took Vitamin E supplements. This is believed to be due to the ability of Vitamin E to limit the oxidation of LDL-cholesterol, which promote blockages in coronary arteries. Increased Vitamin E has also been linked to lowered risk of myocardinal infarction (heart attack) even in health individuals. In addition, people whose blood vitamin E levels are higher have less cataracts growing on the lens of the eyes. Preliminary research has also shown that high doses of Vitamin E is associated with a reduced risk of Alzeheimer’s disease and a variety of cancers.
Vitamin E are found in 4 main food groups: vegetable oils, nuts, legumes, and wheat germ oil. Researches have shown that on average, women’s intake of Vitamin E is below the Recommended Daily Allowance, which is the minimum requirement. While our normal diet is sufficient in providing the 4 tocotrienols and 3 of the tocopherols, experts believe it is difficult to acquire enough alpha-tocopherols from food alone without increasing fat intake to above the recommended levels. Vitamin E can also be easily lost or distorted during food preparation, cooking, and storage. Many foods such as milk and cereal are fortified with Vitamin E. Supplements of Vitamin E today mainly only contain alpha-tocopherols, and they may act as a solution to prevent deficiency.
References:* (1) http://www.healingdaily.com/detoxification-diet/vitamin-e.htm (2) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitamin_E
