Introduction
Vitamin E is the name for a group of compounds with distinctive antioxidant properties.
Researchers have identified 8 naturally occurring chemical forms of vitamin E, however, alpha-tocopherol is the only compound recognised to meet human needs. [1]
It’s a fat-soluble nutrient that functions as a chain-breaking antioxidant and prevents the spread of free radicals. [1,2]
It is also known to protect skin against harmful UV radiations and, hence, it is an integral part of the skin’s antioxidant defences [5]. However, UV light exposure can reduce the vitamin E content in the skin[5].
Also, topical applications can provide certain vitamin E forms that are not available from the diet and due to its lipophilic nature, it can penetrate into all the underlying skin layers. [5]
Some studies indicate that vitamin E supplementation can help against skin wrinkling, skin pigmentation and photoprotection. [5]
- Vitamin E is absorbed in the intestine, and, because of being a fat-soluble nutrient, its absorption is enhanced when it is consumed in a meal that contains fat. [2]
- The average alpha-tocopherol absorption from a usual diet is considered to be around 69-75 %. [3]
- Vitamin E is absorbed in the intestine and transported to the liver. [3]
- The liver then secretes alpha-tocopherol in very small quantities and approximately 90-99% alpha-tocopherol pools are contained in the adipose tissue. [2,3]
- Vitamin E is excreted in both the urine and faeces, with faecal elimination being the major mode of excretion due to low intestinal absorption. [2]
- Daily losses of alpha-tocopherol are estimated to be around 4 mg/day. [3]
Body Functions
Recommended Daily Intake
Deficiency Symptoms
Vitamin E Food Sources
Excessive Intake/ Toxicity Side Effects
Groups At Risk of Vitamin E Deficiency
Vitamin E Interaction With Other Nutrients
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) – Vitamin E requirements may increase when intakes of PUFAs are increased [2]
- Vitamin K – Taking vitamin E with vitamin K might decrease the effects of vitamin K [8]
Nutrient Profiles For Food Groups
