Why does your body need Vitamin E? What are its key functions?
1. The role of Vitamin E.
2. Proper ways to consume Vitamin E.
3. Natural sources of Vitamin E in food.
4. Risks associated with Vitamin E usage.
5. Side effects of Vitamin E.
1. The Impact of Vitamin E
Thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties, Vitamin E is gaining popularity. Some notable benefits include:
- Skin hydration
- Wound healing
- Skin cancer prevention
- Itch relief
- Eczema treatment
- Psoriasis treatment
- Scar prevention or reduction
- Wrinkle prevention and treatment
- Sun protection for the skin
2. Consuming Vitamin E the Right Way
The recommended amount of Vitamin E is calculated from your daily food intake and the supplements you use.
The maximum dosage you can safely take in a day is the amount deemed safe for treating vitamin E deficiency. However, using high doses should only be done under the guidance of a doctor.
As vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient, the most effective way to supplement it is through food.
3. Is Vitamin E Present in Natural Foods?
Most of us can synthesize sufficient vitamin E through our daily food intake. Foods rich in vitamin E include:
- Vegetable oils
- Green vegetables (such as spinach)
- Fortified cereals and other foods
- Eggs
- Nuts and seeds
4. Risks of Using Vitamin E
The effects and risks of using vitamin E remain unclear. Prolonged use (over 10 years) may increase the risk of stroke.
Additionally, clinical trial analysis reveals that patients using synthetic or natural vitamin E at a dosage of 400 IU per day or higher face an elevated mortality risk for any health condition. As the dosage increases, so does the risk of death. Cardiovascular studies also indicate that patients with diabetes or heart disease using vitamin E at 400 IU per day have an increased risk of heart failure and hospitalization for other heart-related issues.
Improper vitamin E supplementation during early pregnancy can be harmful. A study shows that women using vitamin E supplements in the first 8 weeks of pregnancy increase the risk of congenital heart defects by 1.7 times. However, the exact amount of vitamin E used by these pregnant women is yet to be conclusively determined.
A different study indicates that men using synthetic vitamin E more than 7 times a week, combined with the use of vitamin E supplements, have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer compared to non-users.
5. Side Effects of Vitamin E
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction to vitamin E, such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat.
Stop using vitamin E and consult your doctor if you encounter symptoms like:
- Headaches, dizziness, changes in vision
- Feeling lightheaded, almost fainting
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea, stomach cramps
- Easy bruising or bleeding (orange-colored urine, bleeding gums)
Common side effects of vitamin E include:
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Mild rash
The American Heart Association recommends using antioxidants, including vitamin E, through a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains rather than relying on supplements. If considering vitamin E supplementation, consult with a doctor to find the most suitable type.
Vitamin E is the key to a healthy immune system, skin, and eyes. In recent years, vitamin E supplements have become more popular. However, not all users fully understand the benefits of vitamin E and the potential risks of excessive use.
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