Vitamin E: A Powerful Antioxidant
Other well known antioxidants are vitamin C and beta-carotene. Antioxidants are nutrients that block some of the damage caused by toxic by-products released when the body transforms food into energy or fights off infection. The build up of these by-products over time largely causes the aging process and can lead to the development of several health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and many inflammatory conditions like arthritis. Antioxidants protect us against these conditions and help reduce the damage to our body caused by toxic chemicals and pollutants. Vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and other important antioxidants can be found in our foods and/or health supplements. 
It is found in vegetable oils, walnuts, peanuts, almonds, seeds, olives, avocado, wheat germ, liver, and leafy green vegetables.Symptoms of Vitamin E Deficiency:
Severe deficiency can be associated with serial miscarriages and premature delivery in pregnant women. Vitamin E helps prevent arteries from clogging by blocking the conversion of cholesterol into the waxy fat deposits called plaque (atherosclerosis) that stick to blood vessel walls. This vitamin also thins the blood, allowing blood to flow more easily through arteries even when plaque is present. Studies in the last decade have reported beneficial results from the use of vitamin E supplements to prevent heart disease and other types of cardiovascular disease. It has been noted that people with cancer often have lower levels of Vitamin E. In addition, studies that observed groups of people over long periods of time suggest that diets rich in antioxidants may be connected to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer. Supplementation may reduce your risk of developing this condition. Vitamin E inhibits the growth of some cancers in test tubes and animals, particularly hormone responsive cancers such as breast and prostate. There is reason to believe, therefore, that, for these types of cancers, at least, supplementation may prove beneficial for both prevention and treatment. Alzheimer's Disease: Oxidative stress is also believed to contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease. Antioxidants may help to prevent this condition. Studies have also suggested that supplementation improves cognitive performance in healthy individuals and in those with dementia from causes other than Alzheimer's (for example, multiple strokes). Hot Flashes: Vitamin E is a very effective option for the reduction of hot flashes in menopausal women. It also helps reduce other long term risks associated with menopause such as macular degeneration, and cardiovascular disease.
The best source of nutrients is a well balanced diet with foods from the 4 basic food groups. Foods High in Vitamin E: Vegetable oils, wheat germ, whole grain cereals, egg yolk and liver. Supplemental capsules may also be used. Read and follow dosage directions. CAUTIONS: Vitamin K Deficiency: Use cautiously if you have a Vitamin K deficiency, as it may increase your risk of bleeding. Warfarin: May increase the risk of bleeding. Increased Bleeding Risk with: Anise, arnica, chamomile, clove, dong quai, fenugreek, feverfew, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, Panax ginseng, licorice and others. Large Doses (beyond recommended dosages): May increase cholesterol, triglyceride and creatinine phosphokinase levels. Mineral Oil: Mineral oil may interfere with the aborption of fat soluble vitamins. Do not take mineral oil and Vitamin E at the same time. Drug Interactions: If you are taking Cholestyramine, colestipol, orlistat, mineral oil or sucralfate, Vitamin E may decrease absorption of these drugs. Adverse Reactions and Side Effects: Adverse reactions are primarily seen in people who take large doses over a long period of time. As always, a healthy diet is the best way to keep the correct levels of all nutrients, vitamins and minerals in your body and prevent disease and low energy. Return from Vitamin E to Antioxidants
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