VITAMIN E
Chapter: Vitamins, Minerals, and Related Nutrients
Read about VITAMIN E in "Drug safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding" section
AKA: Aquasol E, Chew-E, d-alpha-tocopherol, d-alpha-tocopheryl acid succinate, dl-alpha-tocopherol, dl-alpha-tocopheryl, Eprolin, Epsilan-M, Pheryl-E, Viterra E.
Eight different forms of vitamin E molecules, or vitamers, are found in nature (alpha, beta, gamma, delta, epsilon, zeta, eta, and theta), each of which is absorbed differently in the body and stays in the body for varying amounts of time. As yet, there is no evidence that each of these forms serves a specific purpose. Even so, some recommend switching back and forth between these mixed tocopherols and D-alpha-tocopherol, both in their natural forms.
Controversy has arisen over the efficacy of natural versus synthetic forms of vitamin E. While most synthetic vitamins are just as effective as the natural forms, such is not the case with E. Vitamin E exists in two forms, each a mirror image of the other, the dtocopherol (right-handed) form and 1-tocopherol (left-handed) form. Only the "d" forms are produced in nature, while the synthetic products are a mixture of both "d" and "1" forms, therefore d-alpha-tocopherol would be a natural vitamin whereas d-alpha-tocopherol would be synthetic. Synthetics are only 50 to 70 percent as effective as naturals. Still, synthetic and natural are equally as effective in preventing heart disease and inhibiting the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. According to one study, doses of 400 to 800 ID/day can reduce heart attacks by 77 percent in those already suffering from heart disease.
Though vitamin E is fat-soluble, it acts more like a water-soluble vitamin, as it is excreted by the body rather quickly.
Food Sources: Eggs, nuts and oils of nuts, seeds, soybeans, soybean oils (cold-pressed and unrefined only), fresh wheat germ, wheat germ oil, whole grains; smaller amounts are found in asparagus, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage and other dark leafy vegetables, molasses, and sweet potatoes.
Effects: Vitamin E is a strong antioxidant, especially when taken in conjunction with selenium. It also strengthens the immune system; enhances the ability of brain cells to use oxygen; increases the ability of cells to make energy; helps preserve the lung function of elderly people; and it may slow the aging process by protecting the skin and brain cells (which have high percentages of fat compared to the rest of the body's cells) from free radicals (as people age, their ability to absorb E decreases). It has been used by NASA astronauts to fight the breakdown of red blood cells from radiation. In the past few decades in the U.S., there seems to be a direct correlation between the decline in the amount of vitamin E in the diet and the rise in heart attacks, but hard evidence is still lacking. Recent evidence indicates that an optimum level of 200 lU/day can protect the elderly from heart disease and dementia, as well as boost the immune system; higher doses have not led to greater protection. When given in doses of 2000 lU/day, it may slow the progress of Alzheimer's to a moderate degree, though it is still not known whether it can protect healthy people from getting the disease. A dosage of as little as 50 lU/day, or five times the minimum daily recommended intake for men, can help protect against lung, colorectal, and - especially -prostate cancers. Regular supplementation has also been proven to protect against exercise-induced DNA damage that may lead to cancer. In lab rats, it has been shown to prevent liver damage and liver cancer caused by DHEA.
It also helps the body utilize vitamin A better, and raises the levels of HDLs, the "good" cholesterol. It is reported to extend the life of red blood cells, dilate the blood vessels, and thin the blood. It can even halt, and sometimes reverse, nerve damage caused by such neurological disorders as cystic fibrosis and chronic liver disease.
Vitamin E breaks down sodium nitrate, a food additive and suspected carcinogen; blocks the formation of nitrosamine, another carcinogen; prevents lung damage from nitrogen oxides; and can counteract the effects of a fatty meal, especially damage done to blood vessels from high cholesterol.
Works synergistically with the steroid DHEA.
Deficiency symptoms include gastrointestinal problems, dry dull hair, heart disease, impotency, miscarriages, enlarged prostate, and sterility.
Precautions: No known toxicity up to 3200 IU, though it should not be taken by those who are allergic to vitamin E. Those with thrombophlebitis (blood clots in the leg veins) or liver disease should consult a physician first. Evidence indicates that it may suppress the immune system when taken in doses of 100 IU or more. It can elevate blood pressure when first taken, so those with high blood pressure or heart disease should not take more than 200 IU without consulting a physician first. Dosages above 600 lU/day should not be taken by those with high blood triglyceride levels or a thyroid condition. Vitamin E prolongs the clotting of blood, which can lead to problems such as bleeding-type strokes, cerebral hemorrhage, internal bleeding or ecchymoses (discoloration of the skin due to blood leaching into body tissues) if there is a deficiency of vitamin K, certain rare medical conditions are present, or if a person is taking coumarin-type drugs or drugs with anticlotting properties, such as Warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin. Vitamin E supplementation should be stopped about two weeks before surgery, as it could cause excessive bleeding. Paradoxically, vitamin E may cause blood clots if taken in doses above 800 lU/day. Common side effects include breast enlargement, dizziness, and headaches. It may also cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, gas, hives, chapped lips, muscle aches, nausea, upset stomach, fatigue, weakness, and blurred vision, though these are rare. Allergies can also occur when vitamin E is used in skin preparations, but these are extremely rare. Overdose symptoms consist of fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Lab animals given extremely high doses have experienced adverse effects on their adrenal, thyroid, and sex glands.
Recent evidence indicates that the pill form may be harmful, as most only contain alpha-tocopherol, and may do an incomplete job of neutralizing some harmful compounds. Only gamma-tocopherol can eliminate peroxynitrite, a very destructive nitric oxide radical found at sites of inflammation which can lead to cancer and heart disease, and remove nitrogen oxide, a component of air pollution. High levels of alpha-tocopherol can suppress levels of gamma-tocopherol in the blood. Unfortunately, it is impossible to maintain adequate levels, even from a healthy diet; some, however, say a healthy diet can offset this deficiency.
Vitamin E can increase the effect of oral anticoagulants, decrease the effect of iron supplements in those with iron-deficiency anemia, and deplete the body of vitamin A if vitamin E is taken in excessive amounts (and yet, in recommended doses, E can increase the benefits and decrease the side effects of A). When high dosages are combined with high dosages of BHA, BHT, or 2-MEA, it may shorten the life span.
Beyond this, researchers are evenly divided on whether vitamin E is harmful or not. One study indicates that, in some people, doses in the 800 lU/day range may cause weakness and fatigue - symptoms which disappear a day or so after supplementation is stopped - and damage to the skeletal muscles. The findings are supported by the fact that excessive amounts of creatinine, an end product of muscle metabolism, was found in subjects' urine. Claims that it is a causative factor in phlebitis, breast tumors, and breast enlargement (in men as well as women) are unsupported by hard evidence.
Vitamin E can be destroyed or rendered ineffective by birth control pills, chlorine (including chlorinated drinking water, which is common in most communities), cholestyramine, colestipol, cooking in copper pots, food processing, estrogen, freezing, heat, inorganic iron (ferrous sulfate; organic iron, such as ferrous gluconate, peptonate, citrate, or fumarate has no known adverse effect), iron supplements (in healthy individuals), mineral oil, neomycin, rancid fat and oil, Olestra, and oxygen. Individuals using mineral oil on a frequent basis may need more vitamin E, as do those eating a lot of polyunsaturated vegetable oils. If taking a multivitamin supplement with iron, make sure there is at least a six- to eight-hour span between taking the supplement and vitamin E.
In 1998, the University of Arizona found that microbiologist Dr. Marguerite Kay had published erroneous research papers on aging, including one study that concluded that vitamin E had some positive effects on aging.
Dosage: Some suggest 100 to 1000 lU/day, others 800 to 1200 lU/day, with daily doses not to exceed 1600 lU/day. A dose of 400 lU/day, however, is reportedly enough to protect against heart disease (the RDA is only 30 lU/day). To increase potency, it is recommended that 25 micrograms of selenium be taken with each 200 IU of vitamin E; adequate amounts of inositol and choline should also be present in the diet. It also works synergistically with French maritime pine bark extract, another antioxidant. Those engaged in regular strenuous exercise have a greater need for this vitamin than most people. It is recommended that those who are elderly or who have digestive problems take the dry or succinate form.
Questions and Answers
what vitamin and herbs are blood thinners?, im having surgery and i need to stop taking vitamins and herbs that are blood thinnners 2 weeks prior to surgery. the only ones i know for sure are vitaimin E and st johns wort.
Of course you must stop taking any type of blood thinning supplement prior to surgrey. A great book you should purchase is Prescription for Nutritional Healing by James F. Balch, M.D., second edition. It has a section on preparing and recovering from surgery. If taken both before and after surgery, you will support the healing process and lessen postsurgical discomfort and pain. The recommended supplements are as follows:
Acidophilus - As directed on label 3 times a day - to stabilize the intestinal baceria flora if antibiotics are used. Use a high potency powdered form.
Coenzyme Q10 - 60mg daily - A free radical destroyer that improves tissue oxygenation.
Essential fatty acids - as directed on label - Important for proper cell growth and healing of tissues.
Free-form amino acid complex - as directed on label - Aids in collagen synthesis and wound healing. Is a readily available form of protein, easily absorbed by the body.
Kyolic Garlic - 2 capsules 3 times daily - A natural antibiotic that enhances immune function.
L-Cystine - 500mg twice daily - Speeds healing of wounds.
L-Glutamine 500mg 3 times daily and at bedtime - Speeds healing of wounds.
L-Lysine - 500mg daily - Speeds healing of wounds and aids collagen formation.
Multivitamin complex with vitamin A and natural beta-carotene - as directed on label - Provides necessary vitamins and minerals. Vitamin A is needed for protein utilization in tissue repair.
Vitamin K - As directed on label - This important vitamin is needed for blood clotting.
Vitamin C - 6,000-10,000mg daily in divided doses - Aids in tissue repair of wounds.
Vitamin E - Begining the day after surgery, take 600 IU daily. DO NOT TAKE VITAMIN E DURING THE 2 WEEKS BEFORE SURGERY AS IT THINS THE BLOOD. - Promotes healing and reduces scar formation.
Zinc - 50mg daily - Plus Calcium 1500mg daily, magnesium - as directed on label, silica - as directed on label, and Vitamin D - 400 IU daily - all are important for tissue repair.
Herbs that are beneficial before and after surgery:
Echinacea - enhances immune system function
Goldenseal - a natural antibiotic, helps prevent infection (only take for 1 week at a time.)
Milk Thistle - protects the liver from toxic buildup of drugs and chemicals resulting from surgical procedures.
I know the list is long but I wanted to give you the whole rundown. You might think to purchase this book, it's really great. I have used it for years and find it the easiest to follow for any type of problem. Good luck on your surgery!
What herbs can I mix with vitamin E oil to aid in making scars smaller?, I had my thyroid remove for thyroid cancer in December of last year. The resulting scar is large (2 inches from side to side and 4 mm wide) and I'm starting to form a keloid at the site of the drain tube. It is still very itchy and a little sore. Is there a mixture of herbs that I can use to mix with my vitamin E oil to soften and maybe lessen the appearance of the scar? Do you recommend a specific massaging technique to help in this area? Thanks in advance!
Emu oil works great with Vit. E on scar reduction.
Surgical scars, newer scars, bad acne scars.
It has been proven that massages at least once a week for a period of at least 3 – 6 months can reduce the appearance of scars. It’s thought that with a good deep massage, blood is being bought to the area to help break down adhesions between scar tissue and the skin’s surface, resulting in healing and also cell regeneration. Try and use a massage oil that has proven benefit to the skin like a formula rich in vitamin e, aloe or jojoba and emu oil. To make a good massage oil for home use vitamin E oil (vitamin E capsules are a good source for this)
mix with jojoba oil and olive oil, add the emu oil and apply to skin.
Wash hands thoroughly after use.
are there any herbs or vitamin es that are beneficial to take if you want to stop smoking?,
A strong multi-vitmian (not the chea ones from Boots, but go to a good health shop or try these sites):
http://www.highernature.co.uk/Default.as...
http://www.victoriahealth.com/default.as...
http://www.nutricentre.com/home.aspx
or B vitmians or a good B complex as they help with the nerves.
Also take a good source of omegas such as Hemp oil or Flaxeed oil casules or liquid.
Do these vitamins/ herbs cause blood thinning?, I will be having surgery thursday, the doctor said there will be bleeding and in order to higher my blood count. I was wondering if these vitamins cause the blood to thin.
vitamin E
Noni
Minerals
cod liver oil
Vitamin E acts as a blood thinner. The rest of the items you've listed do not.
is it better to take separate vitamin pills than taking one multivitamin pill per day?, like i need vitamin B, C, E and 21st century "Herbs for Your Skin" tablets for my skin (i have pimples, acnes and blackheads).
i wonder if i should take multivitamins instead but the dosages of each vitamin are lower than what i want.
so what do you think? which one is better?
you are doing the right thing, i take a multivitamin in addition to my b12 and flora fiber, and other things, just watch it that you don't feel to energized or constipated from vitamins or have other side effects!
best herbs for bringing on period after the depo shot when trying to conceive?, I have stopped taking the depo shot and now want to conceive. I realize this can take several months. I was just wondering if there was some herbs that may help with my period and conceiving. I have Vitex, L-argnine, vitamin E, essential oils, prenatals, evening primrose, and a fertility blend. Can I take them all together or do you recommend something else?
I have heard that red clover helps as well. Here is a website that lists out some, but I don't think they give a dosage amount. You'll probably want to search around for dosages. I have heard that Vitex is about the best.
http://www.fertilityhelper.net/female_fe...
I am pretty sure you can take them all together, as well. I am nursing and take an Omega complex, evening primrose (when getting ready to have a period) and prenatals for sure, and red clover is suggested for bringing fertility back when you are still nursing your toddler.
Best of luck to you!
How do you remove jaundiced or yellow tinged in the eye-whites (on the eye area)?, I have this yellow tinged for a couple of years now & can't seems to get rid of it although it cause no pain nor discomfort. I tried taking eye herbs, Vitamin A, C & E but nothing changes.
Hi, yellow tinged eye white signify a weakness in your liver.
I had a friend who had the same problem as you and he was suffering from very poor health from his weak liver. His problem was worse than you cos the whole of his eye whites were yellow.
He was so weak that when he was in his late twenties, he would wake up in the morning and have to lie on bed for one full hour to wait for his body to warm up before he could go off bed. If not, he would suffer from aches throughout his whole body and would have to use the wall as a support when he walked.
Like you, he tried many methods to get rid of this problem. He took various supplements, took up yoga classes, picked up reiki (energy healing) but even the best methods he tried were only able to prevent the problem form getting worst.
After doing a detox with a series of products called HUNZA, he was able to UNDO his eye white problem and his eye whites turned white again. Not just that, he started to be able to exercise and he lost some weight as well and looked 10 years younger!
Anything other than the usual for painful periods?, I am 16, weigh roughly six stone and have had periods for three years now. The last few months they have started to get really bad. I have fainted and been sick, meaning I have had to miss school. They are always late and last for ages. I can't swallow pills. Calpol, and dissolvable pain killers aren't working either. Are there any more natural methods e.g herbs, vitamins etc I could use?
my sister suffered the same problems around the same age, for Relief
she took a product known as indian brandee. but i would still go to the DRs just to get checked over
Post gastric bypass vitamin intake / immune system issues?, I had open RNY on 03/04/04. I have IDDM, so my immune system is compromised anyway, hence I take a lot of vitamins - i.e., three multis plus an extra 40 of zinc, 500 of C, 400 IU of E, 8,000 IU of A, and extra D, can't remember right now what the dosage is of that particular one; also take cranberry with C, B complex liquid and occasionally, when I remember to get them, acidophilus. Is there anything else I can take to improve my immune system, as I'm still having various problems? I drink water and cranberry juice and eat yogurt with live active cultures. I don't mind herbs, but I've heard too many bad things about echinacea, so I'm not going to take that... I'm allergic to pollen so I can't take the bee products. Incidentally I also have hypothyroidism and asthma. Just tired of being tired, and having various infections despite trying to keep tight control my blood sugar. Thank you.
You might be taking the wrong kind of vitamins or just plain too many. I have 2 friends that have had that surgery. Their doctor told them to take 2 Flinstone chewable vitamins every day. Maybe the foods you are eating such as the yogurt has too much sugar and your body is having trouble breaking it down. Also check and see how much sugar, starch, glucose your vitamins have as fillers. Good luck and feel better.
