Health benefits of Vitamin E: Keep your eyesight sharp, skin healthy, immune system strong with this vitamin in daily diet
Vitamin E is a vital fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes, supports immunity, preserves nerve and eye function, and promotes heart and skin health. It reduces inflammation, aids wound healing, and prevents oxidative damage.
Powerful antioxidant vitamin Vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin, is one of the most important antioxidants in the body. It not only protects the cell membranes from damage caused by free radicals, it also aids in reducing the risk of development of chronic diseases. It also plays a major role in delaying cellular ageing (Images: Canva)
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Membrane stability support Vitamin E is present in the lipid membranes, and thus stabilises them and helps in preventing their breakdown. It also protects red blood cells and the nervous tissue, along with the muscle cells, as they are more susceptible to oxidative stress. A deficiency of vitamin E may lead to fragile red blood cells.
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Boosts immune system The immune response of the body is influenced by this fat-soluble vitamin, as it promotes the activity of T-cells and enhances the production of antibodies. It aids in defending the body against pathogens and infections, hence, a lack of this vitamin may cause recurrent infections.
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Protects nervous system The nerve cells of the nervous system are safeguarded by vitamin E from oxidative stress. When the body does not have sufficient amounts of this vitamin, neuropathy and impaired balance may be noticed. It also leads to muscle weakness, and can cause developmental delays in children.
Keeps eyesight sharp, eyes healthy Vitamin E also prevents macular degeneration (which causes blurred or reduced vision) and cataracts, as it reduces the risk of damage to the eye tissues. Adequate intake of this vitamin supports normal retinal function and protects the photoreceptors present in the eyes.
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Protects heart health Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as bad cholesterol, can lead to build-up of plaque in the blood vessels, which causes atherosclerosis, thus increasing the risk of cardiac conditions. Vitamin E may aid in preventing the oxidation of LDL, thus reducing the risk.
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Skin repair promoter Vitamin E has also been found to support healing of the skin tissues, as it reduces inflammation and promotes repair of tissues. The beauty vitamin also protects the skin from damage caused by ultraviolet rays, and aids in preventing damage and early ageing.
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Boosts wound healing process Through the process of decreasing oxidative stress on sites that have become injured, vitamin E promotes wound repair and enhances healing. Topical use and dietary intake both are necessary for better wound repair. Hence, foods rich in vitamin E, like avocados and sunflower seeds, are recommended.
Helps reduce inflammation This fat-soluble vitamin has its effects on hormonal regulation and inflammation as well. It may act by reducing tissue swelling and cellular injury, and can aid in long-term inflammatory conditions. Adequate intake can help in controlling the symptoms.
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Foods rich in vitamin E Vitamin E is found in abundance in foods like nuts, namely almonds and hazelnuts, and seeds like sunflower and pumpkin seeds. It is also found in vegetable oils like sunflower oil, along with green leafy vegetables. Regular intake of these foods may aid in preventing deficiency. (Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis)
Rajeshwaari Kalla is a freelance health and wellness writer
