Vitamin E is actually composed of a family of substances known as delta tocopherol. The one with the most potent and biological activity is alpha tocopherol. Supplements commonly list vitamin E as d-alpha tocopherol E). Vitamin E is absorbed in the small intestine after being emulsified with other dietary fats. 20-50% of dietary vitamin E is absorbed. Vitamin E is important for protecting blood vessels from damaging LDL “bad cholesterol particles”. It also plays roles in protecting cell membranes from oxidative damage.
Signs & Symptoms of Vitamin E Deficiency:
- Poor immune function
- Ataxia (loss of balance and dizziness)
- Pigmented retinopathy
- Infertility
- Myopathy (muscle pain)
- Poor reflexes
- Neuropathy
- Dry skin
- Opthalmoplegia
Vitamin E has been shown to be beneficial in the following conditions:
- Alzheimer’s
- Tardive dyskinesia
- Cataracts
- Poor Immunity
- Parkinson’s disease
- Ischemia reperfusion injuries
- Coronary heart disease
- Pre menstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Fibrocystic Breast Disease
- Arthritis
- Dermatitis
- Psoriasis
- Atherosclerosis
- Mercury toxicity
Drugs, medications, or additives that may deplete or interfere with Vitamin E metabolism:
- Alcohol
- Isoniazid
- Anticonvulsants such as phenobarbitol, phenytoin, and carbamazepine
- Orlistat
- Olestra (a food additive found in many fat free products)
- Mineral oil (when taken consistently in higher doses)
- Cholestyramine
- Colesevelam (Welchol)
- Colestipol
- ** Cholecystectomy (gall bladder removal) can lead to vitamin E deficiency through malabsorption.
Laboratory testing for Vitamin E:
- Plasma
- Red cell hemolysis
- Expiratory pentane or ethane
- Genetic defect on chromosome 8 (alpha-TTP)
- Lymphocyte functional assays (Spectracell labs)
Food Sources:
- Sunflower seeds, coconut, peanuts, cod liver oil, walnut, apple, sweet potatoes, almonds, and pecans