Vitamin E, a friend of cells

Protector of youth

Oxidative stress is associated with damage to cells, tissues and organs, which can lead to disease, as well as aging. But General E, protecting the cells, also protects our youth! Vitamin E has been linked to good skin health and used in dermatology for over 50 years, both as a supplement and for topical application. It is well known that the cosmetics industry uses vitamin E in creams and lotions, because it has healing and anti-aging properties, thanks to its antioxidant action.

Experimental studies show that Vitamin E probably has anti-cancer and photoprotective properties. It protects against ultraviolet radiation (UVB rays), repairing the damage it causes to some extent. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and helps treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, yellow nail syndrome and atopic dermatitis. It has very good results on dark circles around the eyes and hair care. Knowing that, it does not seem strange to us that, since the Minoan era, women and men have used olive oil to care for their body and hair, drawing wisdom from experience.

New benefits are being discovered every day

Vitamin E strengthens the immune system in the fight against viruses and bacteria. It is also important for the formation of red blood cells and the interaction of cells. It helps the body use vitamin K, and also helps dilate blood vessels and prevent the formation of blood clots, which could lead to a heart attack. It has been linked to protection against coronary heart disease, due to its ability to inhibit the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is considered the beginning of atherosclerosis.

Its powerful antioxidant effects are the reason why the possible role of Vitamin E in the prevention of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, is being examined, while there is positive evidence that vitamin E can contribute to the delay of macular degeneration and cataract. But more research in these fields is required.

Did you know that: Tocopherol was so named from the Greek words “tokos” (τόκος=birth) and “fero” (φέρω=to bear)? As early as the 1900s, it was linked to the proper functioning of the reproductive system and fertility, through studies in animals. Vitamin E deficiency can cause infertility in both men and women. Vitamin E is therapeutically used in cases of frequent miscarriages, as well as in cases of muscular dystrophy.

Where to find it

Vitamin E is present in vegetable oils such as corn oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil and, of course, in olive oil. What you must keep in mind though, is that you should not go for oil that has been treated (refined), because in this case much of the tocopherols are oxidized and lost. Nuts, especially almonds, sunflower seeds and hazelnuts, as well as spinach and broccoli, are also rich in vitamin E.

The need of adults and adolescents in vitamin E is set at 15 mg per day. Breastfeeding women have increased needs; they need around 19 mg per day. Children from 9 to 13 years old have lower needs: 11 mg; children from 1 to 8 years old: 6-7 mg, and babies up to 1 year old: 4-5 mg per day. The risks from high doses of Vitamin E are very small. Very high doses of Vitamin E, however, may affect the mechanisms of blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke), so it is recommended to take it with parallel medical monitoring.

TIP: The use of Zakros Olive Oil Politeia extra virgin olive oil in daily salads increases the absorption and functionality of food ingredients, due to the synergistic action of Vitamin E contained in our olive oil with other nutrients contained in vegetables, such as selenium and vitamin C.

Attention: The above article / content is for informational purposes only. Before using any recipe, or before changing your eating habits, consult with your healthcare professional or nutritionist. If you are taking medication, make sure there are no side effects.