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Vitamin E Benfits

Vitamin E is a powerful, fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cell membranes from damage by free radicals and prevents the oxidation of LDL (.bad.) cholesterol. It is necessary for structural and functional maintenance of skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle; assists in the formation of red blood cells; helps to maintain stores of vitamins A and K, iron, and selenium; and may play a protective role against heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Vitamin E is found in nature as a complex of 8 separate compounds (4 tocopherols and 4 tocotrienols), all with important functions in the body.

While vitamin E appears to be safe even at higher doses, people taking blood thinners or aspirin should consult with their doctor about vitamin E to avoid any risk of abnormal blood clotting. Take your vitamin E with a meal that contains some fat to aid in its absorption, and look for natural sources of vitamin E in foods like nuts, spinach, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, and whole grains