Vitamin E is the generic name for a group of 8 compounds with antioxidant properties. Among 8 chemical variants, the one that primarily meets our needs is alpha-tocopherol. It is also the most biologically active form of E vitamins. Nowadays, you can purchase a-tocopherols in pills, creams, oils, or serums. Still, don’t forget that this vitamin is available in certain foods, like red bell pepper, pumpkin, collard greens, peanut, and almonds. Before choosing the best vitamin E for you, consider the following benefits first.
1. It Boosts Skin Health
Did you know that alpha-tocopherol is the most abundant fat-soluble antioxidant in the skin? When you have low levels of this vitamin, your skin might weaken.
You see, this vitamin protects the skin from damages caused by the harmful UV rays and free radicals. Since it can act as an anti-inflammatory compound, it can also reduce skin swelling. Finally, vitamin E can help alleviate chronic dermatitis.
2. It Helps Prevent Cardiovascular Diseases
The best vitamin E might also give your heart health a boost.
Cholesterol performs many crucial functions in the body. However, when oxidized, cholesterol can harm the blood vessels and the rest of the cardiovascular system. Various studies show that vitamin E prevents cholesterol oxidation⁴.
Additionally, according to some studies, vitamin E alone can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 20%. Moreover, this vitamin may also protect the heart from oxidative stress.
3. It Supports Eyesight
One study found that taking zinc, along with vitamins A, C, and E, resulted in a reduction in age-related macular degeneration (AMD)⁵. Another research found that the 5-year risk for cataracts was up to 60% lower in people who took supplements containing naturally-occurring a-tocopherol.
4. It Helps Improve Joint Health
Experts say vitamin E is an important antioxidant that protects the joint against oxidative damage. In fact 1,200 to 1,800 IU of this vitamin daily may ease pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis⁶.
Moreover, E vitamins may help in recovery after working out, since it can neutralize exercise-related free radicals.
5. It Boosts The Immunity
As we age, our immune system declines. The good news is, tocopherols can support our immunity.
The results of a series of studies conducted between 1990 to 1997 showed that giving vitamin E supplements to the elderly could help boost their immune response.
Let’s also not forget that doctors sometimes prescribe vitamin E to reduce the harmful effects of medical treatments, such as radiation therapy and dialysis. This is significantly due to the vitamin’s antioxidant properties that fight free radicals in the body.
There is also adequate evidence that a diet high in E vitamins can improve cellular immunity by inducing higher differentiation in immature T cells (immune cells).
