Vitamin E exists in eight forms, however, the Liver only uses d-alpha-tocopherol, the other seven forms are removed from the body (excreted ); also the synthetic Vitamin E, dl-alpha-tocopherol is half “Left Hand” and half “Right Hand” due to the chemistry of making it synthetically. Your body can not use the ” Left Handed” version, so it is only half as effective. It makes sense to only buy the Natural “Right Handed” Vitamin E which is d-alpha-tocopherol. Otherwise You are wasting Your money on types of Vitamin E that Your body can not use!
Vitamin E is a very powerful Anti Oxidant protecting cells from the damaging effects of free radicals, which are, molecules that contain an unshared electron. Free radicals may cause the development of Cancers and Cardiovascular diease. The electrons are Very Energetic, forming reactive Oxygen, called ROS, “Reactive Oxygen Species”, ( as a result of converting food into energy and Free Radicals, as a by product). Anti Oxidant Vitamin E protects cells from damage by nuetralizing the energetic electrons in the Free Radicals and the Reactive Oxygen. Once Vitamin E nuetralizes a Free Radical, it must be re-activated by Vitamin C to be able to again neutralize another Free Radical. Together Vitamin E and Vitamin C help Your body to prevent damage to Your cells.Also Vitamin E is involved with the immune system and regulation of gene expression and dilation of blood vessels, including inhibiting platelet aggregation ( clotting).
The “Recommended Dietary Allowances” RDA for 18 year olds is 22.5 IU ( international units) this is a minium, and not for Maximum Preformance. The Upper limit is 1,500 IU. Normally 400 to 800 IU is great for the non- athlete.It should be remembered that Vitamin E inhibits platelet aggregation ( clotting ), thus antagonizes K dependent clotting factors. This may increase the risk of bleeding with the use of Warfarin ( Coumadin ).
Vitamin E is naturally found in Nuts, green Leafy Vegetables, Whole Grains, Fruits and Oils including eggs, lean meats, seafood, beans, and peas. Adding supplements that contain Vitamin E ensures You have enough for Maximum preformance.
