Vitamin E
What Is It?
A fat soluble mineral discovered in 1922. Vitamin E is composed of a group of substances called tocopherols, (meaning 'to bear offspring') it is essential for maintaining fertility and stored mainly in fat tissue and the Liver.
Vitamin E plays a significant role as a lipid antioxidant. It enhances activity of vitamin A. It is now thought that zinc is required to maintain normal blood concentration of vitamin E, whilst selenium enhances vitamin E uptake.
Vitamin E is built into LDL for protection from oxidation that can lead to clogged arteries. Vitamin E is destroyed by cooking, oral contraceptive.
Why Do We Need It?
Vitamin E protects cell membranes and body tissue from damage of oxidation, protects against heart disease, blood clots, certain cancers and high cholesterol. It is important in the formation of red blood cells and in the use of vitamin K. Vitamin E promotes fertility and sexual potency so is effective in preventing hot flushes that occur during menopause and also helps in prevention of miscarriage.
Excellent for skin, vitamin E helps the body to use selenium. It enhances the immune system, may delay or prevent cataracts, protect against toxins, and known to hold back the ageing process. Used in the treatment of atherosclerosis, angina, hypertension, eczema, digestive ulcers, PMS, and may help lower blood pressure.
Deficiency Symptoms
Can cause fatigue, premature ageing, sterility, miscarriage, muscular dystrophy, haemolytic anaemia, coronary thrombosis, varicose veins. kidney inflammation, slow wound and burn healing. malabsorption problems, tingling limbs, liver or gallbladder problems, low libido and varicose veins. Severe long term deficiency can cause neurological problems including impaired vision and muscle co-ordination.
People with cystic fibrosis may have low levels of vitamin E due to poor absorption of fats.
Where Can We Find It?
Almonds, apple, apricot, asparagus, avocado, bell peppers, blackberry, blueberry, broccoli, brussels sprouts, carrots, green leafy veg, hazelnuts, kale, kiwi, mango, olives, orange, papaya, peas, peppers, raspberry, spinach, spirulina, strawberry, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, sweet potatoes, swiss chard, tomato, watercress and wheatgrass.
Be Aware...
If you take a Vitamin E supplement, large doses can interfere with absorption of Vitamin A.
Taking excessive supplementation during pregnancy may cause malformation of an embryo.
If taking anticoagulants consult your GP before using vitamin E supplementation.
Inorganic Iron destroys vitamin E so should not be taken together.
Studies/Research
Clinical studies have shown that megadoses of Vitamin E can cause a decrease in thyroid hormone.
A study carried out in 2011 on 600 infertile men found that supplementing Selenium and vitamin E may improve semen quality and have beneficial and protective effects, especially on sperm motility.
Please Note
Vitamins are an essential part of maintaining a fully functional, healthy body - they assist in the growth and development of the body. In combination with all the other essential nutrients they play a part in many roles including metabolism, immunity and digestion. The best and natural way to meet your vitamin needs is to eat a balanced diet containing a variety of raw fruits and vegetables. If you can't meet your needs through food alone, then, and only then you may require dietary supplements. If you feel you need help via alternative methods you must seek guidance from your doctor, nutritionist or natural juice therapist before taking supplements.
References
Nutrients A - Z Dr Michael Sharon
Nutritional Influences on Illness - Melvyn R. Werbach M.D.
The Worlds Healthiest Foods - George Mateljan
Readers Digest Guide to Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements.
Vitamins & Minerals DeMystified - Dr Steve Blake
New Optimum Nutrition Bible - Patrick Holford
The Vitamin Bible - Earl Mindell
Nutritional Healing - Phyllis A. Balch CNC
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3048346/
Disclaimer
Please be aware that we are not Doctors, so it is important BEFORE making any changes that you consult with your GP or Medical Practitioner. The suggestions above are not meant as an alternative to any current medical treatment so please DO NOT stop taking any medications you are on. They are also not an endorsement of their effectiveness, nor a recommendation that they should be followed but instead, provided for informational purposes. None of the information on the Natural Juice Therapy site is intended or implied to treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease.