Introduction
Vitamin E is the name for a group of compounds with distinctive antioxidant properties.
Researchers have identified 8 naturally occurring chemical forms, 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 underlying skin layers [5].
Some studies indicate that vitamin e supplementation can help against skin wrinkling or photoprotection.[5]
- The average α-tocopherol absorption from a usual diet is considered to be around 69-75 %.[3]
- Because vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient, its absorption is enhanced when it is consumed with a meal that contains fat. [2]
- 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 is 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
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