Vitamin E

There are 13 essential vitamins that the body needs and they are broken into two types: water and fat soluble. Vitamins are organic substances required for normal cell function, growth and development. Water-soluble vitamins travel freely through the body, are absorbed directly by cells and excess amounts are usually excreted by the kidneys through urine. These vitamins should be taken in frequent and small doses. They are not as likely as fat soluble vitamins to reach toxic levels. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body’s cells and are not excreted as easily as water-soluble vitamins. They do not need to be taken as often but adequate amounts are needed. Taking too much can be toxic. They bind to fat in the stomach and are then stored in the liver for later use.

VITAMIN E

  • Tocopherol

  • Fat soluble

Best plant food sources

Vegetables: avocado, broccoli dark leafy greens (spinach), sprouts

Grains: fortified cereal, wheat germ, whole grains

Nuts/seeds: nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts), seeds (sunflower)

Oils: vegetable oil (canola, corn, cottonseed, olive, peanut, safflower, soybean, sunflower, wheat germ)

Function in the body

  • Supports circulatory system

  • Supports immune system

  • Contributes to DNA repair

  • Maintains cell membranes and red blood cell integrity

  • Protects Vitamin A and fatty acids from oxidation

  • Helps healing, prevents scarring

  • Improves aerobic capacity

  • Natural antioxidant

  • Helps the body use Vitamin K

Health benefits

  • May help prevent Alzheimer’s disease

  • May protect against prostate cancer

  • Lowers chance of developing heart disease

Symptoms of deficiency

  • Impaired balance and coordination

  • Muscle weakness

  • Pain or numbness in limbs

  • Fertility issues

  • Vision problems

Other notes

  • Drug interaction with Coumadin