Vitamin E

Sources of Vitamin E

Natural Sources

Found abundantly in vegetable oils (such as wheat germ, sunflower, and safflower oil), nuts (like almonds and hazelnuts), seeds (like sunflower seeds), and green leafy vegetables.

Fortified Foods

Some processed foods like margarine, breakfast cereals, and fruit juices are fortified with Vitamin E.

Functions of Vitamin E

Antioxidant: Protects cell membranes from oxidative damage by neutralising free radicals.

Immune Enhancement: Bolsters the immune system, aiding in the prevention of infections.

Skin Health: Contributes to skin health by protecting skin cells from ultraviolet light, pollution, and other environmental factors that produce cell-damaging free radicals.

Blood Vessel Function: Assists in maintaining endothelial cell integrity in blood vessels.

Cell Signalling: Plays a role in cell signalling, regulation of gene expression, and other metabolic processes.

Effects of Vitamin E Deficiency

Neurological Problems: Can lead to nerve damage and neuromuscular problems.

Weakened Immune System: Increases susceptibility to infections.

Anaemia: In rare cases, Vitamin E deficiency can cause anaemia in newborns.

Retinopathy: Premature infants with Vitamin E deficiency may develop a retinal condition.

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Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for Vitamin E

Adults and Teenagers: 15 mg/day (22.4 IU) of alpha-tocopherol. Pregnant Women: 15 mg/day. Lactating Women: 19 mg/day.

Properties of Vitamin E

Fat-Soluble

Stored in the body's fatty tissues and requires dietary fats for absorption.

Stability

Relatively stable to heat but can be destroyed by exposure to air, light, and high temperatures during processing.

Forms

Exists in eight different forms, but alpha-tocopherol is the most active and widely studied form in humans.

Exam Focus-Questions and Answers

1. What are the primary functions of Vitamin E in the body?

Vitamin E functions as a powerful antioxidant, protects cell membranes, enhances immune function, maintains skin and blood vessel health, and is involved in cell signalling and gene regulation.

1. Describe the effects of Vitamin E deficiency.

Deficiency can lead to neurological issues, weakened immune response, potential development of anaemia in newborns, and retinopathy in premature infants.

1. What are the sources and recommended daily allowance of Vitamin E?

Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables, and fortified foods. The RDA for adults and teenagers is 15 mg/day, while for lactating women it is 19 mg/day.