Lecture Notes on Vitamin E

Importance of Vitamin E

• Essential for heart health.
• Helps in decreasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer due to its antioxidant properties.

Vitamin E Deficiency

• Mostly caused by consuming refined carbohydrates, such as:
  • Breads
  • Pasta
  • Cereal
  • Crackers
  • Biscuits
  • Waffles
  • Pancakes

Unique Properties of Vitamin E

• Distinct ability to travel through the cell, unlike other antioxidants.

Vitamin E Complex

• Always recommended to consume Vitamin E in a complex form rather than as a single element.
• Key components of the Vitamin E complex:
  • Alpha Tocopherol
    • Mainly used by the liver.
    • Travels via LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein), the so-called "bad cholesterol."
    • Protects arteries and helps prevent cholesterol oxidation.
  • Gamma Tocopherol
    • Protects against smoke-related damage.
    • Decreases risk of certain cancers and supports arteries.
  • Tocotrienols
    • Supports cholesterol and lipids.
    • Decreases risk of breast cancer.
    • Important for skin health.

Dietary Sources of Vitamin E

• Wheat germ oil is rich in Vitamin E.
• Seeds, nuts, and vegetables are good sources.

Supplementation Advice

• If using Vitamin E supplements, ensure they contain the whole complex, not just one individual component.

Engagement

• Encouragement to share personal success stories related to health improvements involving Vitamin E.