Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that is readily available in eggs, green vegetables and vegetable oils. It is also an antioxidant. While it is unlikely that a healthy person will be deficient in vitamin E, there is some evidence that supplementing the diet with vitamin E oil may offer health benefits.
Heart Disease
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that vitamin E may provide a benefit against heart disease by thinning the blood and blocking the conversion of cholesterol to plaque. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, another study suggests that using vitamin E oil supplements in conjunction with aspirin therapy may be more effective at treating atherosclerosis and preventing strokes than aspirin therapy alone.
Cancer Prevention
The SU.VI.MAX study followed people who took a daily antioxidant pill containing vitamin E and found that the men involved in the study had a lower risk of developing cancer than those who did not take the supplement. Interestingly, there was no discernible benefit for women in the study.
Skin Care
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, there is some evidence that topical application of vitamin E oil may speed the healing process of certain types of wounds. Applying vitamin E oil to minor scrapes and burns may improve healing, but it is important not to introduce bacteria into the injury. Use a sterile needle to prick a hole in a vitamin E capsule and squeeze some of the oil onto the injury.
Prevent Pancreatitis
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that many people with inflammation of the pancreas also have low levels of antioxidants. The pancreas manufactures enzymes responsible for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin E, so when not functioning properly, a vitamin deficiency may develop. Antioxidants such as vitamin E may also treat the inflammation associated with pancreatitis.
Member Comments