Vitamin E, a fat soluble vitamin, is an essential component of your daily multivitamin. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, protecting the body from the harmful effects of free radicals, which can damage the cells in your body. There are several forms of vitamin E; alpha-tocopherol is the form used by the human body.
Heart Disease
Antioxidants protect the body from cell damage, and vitamin E is a good source of this substance. Eating a diet rich in vitamin E may prevent plaque from building up in the arteries that lead to your heart.
Prostate Cancer
Free radical damage to cells is also associated with some forms of cancer. Studies have indicated that vitamin E many contribute to a decrease in the incidence of prostate cancer.
Immune Function
In men over the age of 65, vitamin E supplements improved immune function. Upper respiratory infections and colds were reduced.
Alzheimer's
Recent studies are showing promise in the field of Alzheimer's research. The National Institute on Aging reports that vitamin E seems to reduce Alzheimer's risk in groups with a genetic predisposition for the disease.
Muscle Repair
Ironically, exercise increases the body's production of free radicals. Vitamin E's protective antioxidant qualities may help reduce cellular damage and improve muscle function and recovery times.
Best Sources
A diet rich in vitamin E is the best way to maintain healthy levels of this beneficial, protective antioxidant. Foods high in vitamin E include vegetable oils, leafy green vegetables and nuts.
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