What diseases does vitamin E help prevent?

Vitamin E often goes unnoticed compared to other more popular nutrients, but its impact on health is much greater than many imagine. An adequate level of vitamin E is essential for neurological and muscular function, and for protecting cells against oxidative damage.

Its deficiency, although rare in healthy adults, can lead to serious consequences, especially in people with fat absorption problems and premature newborns, according to Mayo Clinic and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

What diseases does vitamin E help prevent?

Vitamin E deficiency has been linked to the appearance of peripheral neuropathy, muscle weakness, coordination problems, and retinopathy of prematurity. According to Mayo Clinic and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), people with liver diseases, pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or gallbladder disorders show a higher risk of deficiency, as these conditions hinder the absorption of fats and, therefore, of this fat-soluble nutrient.

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In premature newborns, vitamin E deficiency is especially concerning. The NIH details that these babies usually have low reserves because the placental transfer of vitamin E is limited, which can lead to hemolytic anemia, intracranial hemorrhage, and alterations in the development of the retina. Pancreatitis can hinder the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients and increase the risk of deficiencies (Illustrative Image Infobae)

A study published by the National Institutes of Health highlights that the deficiency can trigger ataxia, loss of motor control, and injuries to peripheral and muscle nerves. The study identifies that neurological symptoms can be stopped and even improved after adequate supplementation, although it warns that progression without treatment can lead to irreversible complications.

In adults, multiple investigations have evaluated the relationship between vitamin E and cardiovascular diseases. While some data suggest a possible reduction in mortality from coronary heart disease in people with high dietary intakes, the most relevant clinical trials, such as HOPE and SELECT, have not proven benefits in the prevention of heart attacks, strokes, or prostate cancer.

Both Mayo Clinic and the NIH agree that prolonged supplementation, especially in high doses, can increase the risk of bleeding and cardiovascular complications.

What foods contain vitamin E

The richest food sources of vitamin E include seeds, vegetable oils, nuts, green leafy vegetables, and fortified cereals, according to Mayo Clinic and NIH. These foods, in addition to providing the nutrient, require the presence of fats in the diet to facilitate their proper absorption. Seeds, vegetable oils, nuts, green leafy vegetables, and fortified cereals highlighted for their nutritional value. (Illustrative Image Infobae) The storage of vitamin E in the body’s fatty tissues explains why deficiency is rare in healthy adults. Even so, people with liver disorders, inadequate diets, or digestive diseases remain vulnerable.

How to know if I have vitamin E deficiency

The symptoms of vitamin E deficiency can range from muscle weakness to loss of reflexes and coordination disorders. Mayo Clinic warns that the earliest signs include hyporeflexia, decreased night vision, and loss of vibratory sensation, while in advanced stages ataxia, severe muscle weakness, and even cardiac arrhythmias and blindness may appear. In newborns, the deficiency manifests with hemolytic anemia and visual complications, according to a scientific study. According to the NIH, the diagnosis is confirmed with blood tests that measure serum levels of alpha-tocopherol, the main active form of the vitamin. Values below 8 μmol/L suggest deficiency, especially if accompanied by neurological disorders.

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Most people get the recommended fifteen milligrams of vitamin E daily through a balanced diet. Mayo Clinic recommends consulting with a medical professional before starting any supplementation, especially in the presence of liver disease, vitamin K deficiency, severe heart conditions, or a history of strokes, due to possible interactions and associated risks. An excess of vitamin E, generally from supplements and not from diet, can cause nausea, fatigue, weakness, and headache, and increase the risk of bleeding or serious cardiovascular problems.