What is it:
Vitamin E, otherwise known as alpha-tocopherol keeps excessive oxidation from occurring that could cause harmful effects in the body.
What does it do:
Protects fats, cell membranes, DNA, and enzymes against damage
Encourages normal growth and development
Acts as an antioxidant to protect against heart disease and cancer
Anti-blood clotting agent
May help protect against prostate cancer
Improves immune system
Reduces risk of a first fatal heart attack in men
Symptoms of deficiency:
Symptoms include in infants irritability, fluid retention and anemia. Adult symptoms may include lethargy, loss of balance and anemia. There may be increased risk of heart disease, cancer, and premature aging.
Overdose/Cautions:
Signs of Overdose:
Very high doses may cause:
Nausea
Flatulence
Headache
Fainting
Diarrhea
Tendency to bleed
Altered immunity
Impaired sex functions
Increased risk of blood clots
Altered metabolism of thyroid, pituitary and adrenal hormones
Natural food sources:
Almonds
Asparagus
Avocados
Brazil nuts
Broccoli
Canola oil
Corn
Corn oil/margarine
Cottonseed oil
Fortified cereals
Hazelnuts (filberts)
Peanuts/Peanut oil
Safflower nuts/oil
Soybean oil
Spinach
Sunflower seeds
Walnuts
Wheat germ
Wheat germ oil