Vitamin E and its roles in the body

Vitamin E is a group of powerful fat-soluble antioxidants that is abundant in almonds, peanuts, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, nut butter and sunflower oil.

Antioxidants protect cells from oxidative damage caused by oxygen free radicals by neutralizing them. Free radical damage has been associated with increased DNA damage and cancer risk by forming reactive oxygen species (ROS).

The body forms ROS when it converts food to energy, and ROS formation increases with exposure to certain environmental factors, too, such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, and ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

Vitamin E is also essential for great immune function, cell signaling, and reproductive processes due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also inhibits platelet aggregation and aids blood vessel dilation to support healthy blood pressure.

Let’s take a closer look at vitamin E’s benefits for health alongside its antioxidant properties.

Immune system support

Vitamin E plays a role in supporting the immune system. It helps maintain the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes, which act as barriers against infection and protect immune cells from oxidative damage, thereby strengthening the immune response.

Skin health

Vitamin E is a common ingredient in many skincare products due to its potential benefits for the skin. It helps protect the skin from UV radiation and other environmental stressors and reduces inflammation, which can contribute to premature aging and skin damage.

Heart health

Vitamin E helps to prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol ('bad' cholesterol), which is associated with the development of atherosclerosis and heart disease. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in blood vessels, vitamin E supports heart health and minimizes the risk of negative cardiovascular complications.

Eye health

Vitamin E is associated with a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. As an antioxidant, vitamin E helps protect the eyes from oxidative damage, reducing the risk of developing AMD and other eye-related conditions.

Cognitive function

Research suggests that vitamin E may play a role in maintaining cognitive function and reducing the risk of cognitive decline. As an antioxidant, it helps protect brain cells from oxidative stress, which can contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease.

Reproductive health

Vitamin E is important for reproductive health in both men and women. It is involved in maintaining the health of reproductive organs and supporting fertility by reducing oxidative stress in oocytes (eggs), sperm, and reproductive organs.