Experts say, being healthy is crucial for the body to function effectively and carry out other life processes. To do that, one needs to eat well. Eating involves a strict routine which in turn is a diet plan. Including vitamins in this diet plan is very much essential as it play a pivotal role. Among several vitamins, vitamin E is considered special.
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and prevents the skin from damaging. The slow aging of skin is again facilitated by the vitamin. The below write up will cover various aspects of vitamin E.
What is Vitamin E?
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin found naturally and available as a dietary supplement. The group of chemical compounds that collectively make the Vitamin are known as tocopherols. While there are many forms of this vitamin. Alpha version of the same is the most common and biologically active. Naturally occurring vitamin E come in 8 forms viz.:
- Alpha tocopherol.
- Beta tocopherol.
- Gamma tocopherol.
- Delta tocopherol.
- Alpha tocotrienol.
- Beta tocotrienol.
- Gamma tocotrienol.
- Delta tocotrienol.
How does vitamin E work?
Alpha tocopherols work within a specialized biochemical pathway, where it reacts with lipids in protecting the cell membranes from oxidation. The primary function of this vitamin is to get the body rid of the free radicals. Vitamin E also plays a role in gene expression thereby stating its importance.
Also, vitamin E prevents the blood’s own cells to stick to the walls of the blood vessels. This thereby prevents platelet aggregation inside the blood vessel. The anti-oxidant property of this vitamin also helps in the prevention of cancer (at some cases) though.
Advantages of Vitamin E
- Adequate levels of Vitamin E play a role in maintaining the immune system well.
- It also plays a pivotal role in gene expression and other metabolic processes.
- Anti-oxidant property protects the cells from damage.
- Cholesterol levels are well adjusted and maintained by this vitamin.
Disadvantages of lower levels of Vitamin E
- The lower levels of vitamin E can lead to premature birth of babies.
- Coronary heart diseases risk increase with inadequate levels of vitamin E.
- Various eye disorders may crop up due to lower levels of the vitamin.
Sources of Vitamin E
Found abundantly in the nature, Vitamin E is readily available from several sources. To name a few are:
- Sunflower oil.
- Hazel nuts.
- Peanut butter.
- Spinach.
- Broccoli.
- Mango, &.
- Kiwi fruit.
Consumption of the above while avoiding the supplements is always recommended. The correct levels of Vitamin intake will ensure a flawless well-being and health.