Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in the care of our health. It acts mainly as an antioxidant that helps protect our bodies against the harmful effects of free radicals. Free radicals are substances that can damage the body cells and may increase the risk of heart disease and cancer.

The Vitamin E , also known as Alpha-tocopherol, is a natural antioxidant found in foods such as vegetable oils, eggs, nuts, green leafy vegetables and whole grains. The main function of vitamin E is to rid the body of harmful free radicals by neutralizing them. Therefore, vitamin E is being investigated in treatments for Alzheimer's disease and cancer.

What is vitamin E?

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that works to protect body cells from the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive substances derived from normal metabolism, as well as from the exposure to environmental factors such as cigarette smoke and ultraviolet light, causing damage to body cells, proteins and DNA and ultimately, antioxidants may contribute to the development of health problems as heart disease and cancer.

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that participates in the metabolism of all cells. It protects vitamin A and essential fatty acids from oxidation of body cells and prevents the breakdown of body tissues.

Antioxidants do a great job at protecting the body from the reactions of free radicals that can damage our cells. The results of this oxidative damage to cells in the human body can lead us to heart attack, stroke, cancer and aging.

The Vitamin E in the diet can help reduce the risk of certain diseases like heart related diseases and Alzheimer's. Vitamin E helps reduce the known free radicals. Free radicals can "attack" other cellular substances, causing damage to the cell membrane, the metabolic process, and the genetic material (DNA).

Cells have natural defenses against this damage, such as antioxidants vitamin E and vitamin C, but with age these defenses diminish. Cell damage in the brain caused by free radicals can be crucial in Alzheimer's.

Vitamin E has validated its role in immune function, DNA repair, and other metabolic processes. Proponents argue that the consumption of vitamin E protects them from heart attacks by preventing the accumulation of harmful cholesterol in the blood. They claim that vitamin E relieves the swelling associated with arthritis, accelerates wound healing in people who have suffered burns or have had surgery, and slows the progress of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

Vitamin E is used to protect our bodies against the effects of pollution, excessive exposure to the sun and reduces the risk of developing cataracts.

Vitamins are essential compounds for growth and health. Vitamin E is needed in small quantities and can be found in a healthy diet. However, conditions such as chronic intestinal diseases, liver disease and pancreas disease may increase the need of the patient to consume vitamin E.

Vitamin E works together with other antioxidants such as vitamin C, helping to protect the body. Vitamin E improves the absorption of vitamin A and protects our bodies against the toxic effects of some metals such as lead.

The lack of vitamin E does not cause any disease; its deficiency is cause enough to weaken the immune system. The RDA for vitamin E is 15 IU (international units). According to research on Vitamin E, the minimum daily consumption should be of 150 IU for it to act as an antioxidant. The average diet does not come close to this level.

The Vitamin E as an antioxidant stabilizes cell membranes and protects the tissues of the skin, eyes, liver, breast and testicles, which are more susceptible to oxidation. When applied to the skin, vitamin E which contains creams or oils, helps in the process of healing, protects cells from free radicals and reduces rashes caused by itching.

Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that prevents the oxidation of polyunsaturated fats on membranes and lipoproteins, including LDL and HDL cholesterol. However, the scientific community remains divided in its conclusions.

Possible healing effects:

• It can delay the development of arteriosclerosis and Alzheimer's disease.
• It is the antioxidant par excellence.
• It is important in preventing cancer and cardiovascular problems.
• It helps Vitamins C, A and Carotene to perform its functions.
• It can reduce damages associated with the aging of the immune system and the Central Nervous System.
• It can alleviate damages to the lungs provoked by smoking and environmental pollution.
• It can prevent diabetes.
• It helps in healing a number of skin disorders, in addition to its importance in the repair and maintenance of tissues.
• It improves blood circulation, also regulating the proper blood clotting.
• It helps in preventing cataracts.
• It improves the performance of athletes and relieves cramps in the legs.
• It maintains the health of nerves and muscles.
• It stimulates fertility in men as in women.