The Benefits of Vitamin E: Fact vs. Fiction

Are you one of the millions taking a vitamin E supplement daily? Have you discussed the amount of your intake with your doctor?

As an antioxidant, vitamin E plays an important role in supporting our immune system and protecting us from the damaging affects of free radicals. While its benefits as an antioxidant are scientifically supported, it appears a vitamin E supplement may be unnecessary. Food sources of vitamin E provide more than enough of the RDA for healthy individuals eating a balanced diet. Deficiency of vitamin E is practically unheard of in humans.

Although a vitamin E supplement may not be necessary, it is important to understand the role the vitamin plays in supporting our overall health. Studies indicate an adequate intake of vitamin E is associated with the prevention of a host of medical ailments. A few of the benefits of vitamin E include:

• Prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia associated with other conditions


• Treatment and prevention of osteoarthritis


• Supporting eye health and preventing eye diseases


• Prevention of heart disease and support of cardiovascular health


• Potential prevention of certain cancers

It is important to understand that mega-doses of a vitamin E supplement are not required for individuals to reap the potential benefits of this important nutrient. The RDA of vitamin E is 10-15 mg. for healthy adults. The variety of food sources for vitamin E makes it simple for an individual to take in adequate amounts by eating a balanced diet.

Dietary sources of vitamin E include:

• Wheat germ


• Liver


• Eggs


• Milk fat


• Butter


• Vegetable oils


• Spinach


• Broccoli


• Kale


• Asparagus


• Yams


• Whole grain cereal products


• Nuts

Individuals who have difficulty absorbing fat may require a vitamin E supplement. Those with Cystic Fibrosis or Crohn’s Disease are often prescribed an E supplement by their doctor. It is important that your doctor be aware of any vitamin supplement you take, but particularly vitamin E. It can interact with a variety of medications prescribed for a whole host of conditions, including depression and high blood pressure.

Unless your doctor advises you to take concentrated doses of vitamin E, there is little reason to do so. Avoid the temptation to subscribe to the propaganda supporting its use as a disease cure or anti-aging preventative. Despite all the hype, no supplement is more beneficial to your health and well-being than a well-balanced, nutritious diet.