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The benefits of Vitamin E are many. Studies show that
Vitamin E may help several chronic conditions like heart disease, stroke,
diabetes and cataracts. It has also been shown to relax and make more
limber your blood vessels. In heart disease it is now thought to reduce
the risk of heart disease by protect LDL Cholesterol from oxidation . When
LDL oxidizes it is more likely to promote the build up of fatty plaque in
the vessels which of course leads to atherosclerosis Vitamin E may also
reduce the blood's ability to clot and help reduce inflammation. Most
studies show that inflammation is one of the real culprits in
atherosclerosis . It has also been found to strengthen the immune system.
Other studies suggest that vitamin E helps prevent or
reduce the effects of a wide range of diseases, including certain cancers,
arthritis, cataracts, Parkinson's, diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.
At this time there is a lot of controversy about
Vitamin E. Studies have been conducted that show to much Vitamin E in
elderly patients (more than 200 IU's a day may give an increased risk of
heart attack.
I take 200-400 IU a day. You choose what is right for
you.
Two primary vitamins—E and C
are still very important. Antioxidants and cognitive function.
A study of 14,968 women (70–79
years of age) investigated their cognitive functions in relationship to
their intake of antioxidant supplements. The women were categorized by the
amounts of vitamin E and vitamin C supplements taken and the length of
time on an antioxidant program. They were then given a brief telephone
cognitive function test. Results: Long-term current users of
vitamins E and C had significantly better scores than non-users. Benefits
were less consistent for women taking vitamin E alone with a still smaller
relationship to those on vitamin C alone. Researchers indicate that the
greater effect of vitamin E over vitamin C may be that vitamin E is
fat-soluble that is absorbed directly by tissue while vitamin C is
water-soluble. They also point out that it is well established that
vitamin E requires the presence of vitamin C for optimal metabolism.
Am. J. Clin. Nutr. (2003). Vol. 77 pp. 975–84.
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