Vitamin E Facts

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cells membranes from damage. It is particularly important for cells that carry oxygen like the cells of lungs and red blood cells. Vitamin E also has a role in immune function, DNA repair, and other metabolic processes

The RDA for vitamin E for adults is 15mg/day. The upper tolerable intake level (UL) for vitamin E is set at 1,000 mg a day. The UL applies only to supplements.

Excess vitamin E from the diet is never a problem. Prolonged use of supplements in excess of the upper tolerable intake level can produce blurred vision, fatigue, and gastrointestinal distress. High supplemental doses can prolong bleeding.

Vitamin E deficiency is almost unknown in healthy adults because Vitamin E is stored and recycled in the body. Vitamin E deficiency can accompany diseases of the intestinal track where fat is poorly absorbed.

Fortified ready-to-eat cereals, polyunsaturated plant oils (margarine, salad dressing, etc.), seeds, nuts, peanut butter, wheat germ, whole grains, dark green leafy vegetables (like spinach, etc.), and tomato sauce.