Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant found in foods such as almonds, sunflower seeds, vegetable oils and peanut butter, and dietary supplements. Most adults require 15 milligrams of vitamin E daily, the amount found in 2.25 oz. of almonds or 3 oz. of sunflower seeds. Though deficiencies are rare, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements, they may affect low-birth-weight infants and people with nutrient absorption problems. Vitamin E provides numerous unique health benefits.
Improved Eye Health
Vitamin E may provide protection for your eyes and vision. Vitamin E may work with other nutrients, including zinc, vitamin C and beta-carotene to provide protection against macular degeneration -- the primary cause of blindness in elderly adults in America, and an inflammatory eye condition known as uveitis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Though research findings are mixed, vitamin E may also help prevent cataracts, or the clouding covering atop your eyes.
Reduced Cancer Risk
As an antioxidant, or nutrient that helps reduce the effects of toxins known as free radicals in your body, vitamin E may lower your risk for certain forms of cancer. While long-term vitamin E supplement use have been linked with increased cancer risk, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, supplementation may help lower your risk for prostate cancer. Reaping vitamin E from healthy foods is considered safe and may provide protection from numerous forms of cancer, which are associated with free radicals, and potentially enhance your recovery process if or when you acquire the disease.
Menstrual Benefits
If you experience severe premenstrual or menstrual symptoms, vitamin E may help reduce your symptoms. Increasing your vitamin E intake for 2 to 3 days before menstruation may help alleviate pain associated with menstruation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin E may also help ease emotional symptoms, such as depression and anxiety, and food cravings that take place prior to menstruation.
Reduced Risk for Respiratory Infections
The antioxidant benefits of vitamin E may support your respiratory system, which includes your lungs, diaphragm and trachea, or "wind pipe." According to the Linus Pauling Institute, vitamin E may help reduce the effects of the common cold and increase your body's ability to resist flu viruses. The nutrient may also enhance respiratory health among elderly adults, whose immune systems are weaker than healthy younger adults.
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