V i t a m i n E
Vitamin E refers to a group of eight fat-soluble compounds that include both tocopherols and tocotrienols. The members are alpha tocopherol, beta tocopherol, gamma tocopherol and delta tocopherol. Other members of the family are alpha, beta, gamma, and delta tocotrienol. α-tocopherol, the most biologically active form of vitamin E, is common in the diet, abundantly in wheat germ oil, sunflower and safflower oils. Vitamin E has many biological functions, the antioxidant function being the most important and best known, protecting body tissue from damage. As a fat-soluble, it is incorporated into cell membranes, the cell walls, which helps to protect them from oxidative damage. Although humans must breathe oxygen to stay alive, oxygen itself is a risky substance inside the body. When oxygen-containing molecules become too reactive, they can start damaging the cell structures around them. In chemistry, this imbalanced situation involving oxygen is called oxidative stress. Vitamin E helps prevent oxidative stress by working together with a group of nutrients that prevent oxygen molecules from becoming too reactive. This group of nutrients includes vitamin C, glutathione, selenium, and vitamin B3. Some researchers believe that vitamin E is the most important member of this oxidative stress-preventing group. Also it does keep the immune system strong against viruses and bacteria. Other functions include enzymatic activities, gene expression and neurological functions. Some suggest the most important function is within cell signaling, as vitamin E is used by cells to interact with each other. Vitamin E is also important in the formation of red blood cells and helps the body use vitamin K. It widens blood vessels and keeps cholesterol away from being oxidized, hence preventing clogged arteries. It is also pivotal in the proper function of the brain. It protects the myelin sheaths that surround neurons in the brain. Vitamin E is also necessary for the health of nerve cells in general by protecting the layer of insulation surrounding sections of the nerve cells. Without this protection a loss of muscle control and coordination does happen. Vitamin E can be used to reduce or clear scars on the skin, including acne scars. It is more effective when used soon after the scar is formed, but it can be used on older scars as well, yet older scars may not see as much improvement. It also directly protects our skin from damage caused by the sun's ultraviolet radiation. |
15 mg RDA - 1000 mg UL Solubility: Fat Index: RDA (recommanded dietary allowances) per day [3] UL (tolerable upper intake level) per day [4] References: [3] Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [4] Dietary Reference Intakes: Tolerable Upper Intake Levels, Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine, National Academies, 1997 |