Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that is found in many foods and is available as a dietary supplement. It is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses, but like any substance, it can cause side effects in some people.
Possible side effects of vitamin E supplements include:
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
In rare cases, vitamin E supplements can cause more serious side effects, such as:
- Allergic reactions, which may cause skin rash, itching, or hives
- Blood clotting problems
- Increased risk of prostate cancer
- Interference with certain medications, such as blood thinners
It is important to talk to your doctor before taking vitamin E supplements, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. The recommended daily intake of vitamin E for adults is 15 milligrams (mg) per day. It is generally recommended to get your nutrients from a balanced diet rather than relying on supplements.
What is vitamin E?
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that is found in many foods and is also available as a dietary supplement. It is an antioxidant, which means that it helps to protect cells in the body from damage caused by free radicals.
Vitamin E is important for maintaining the integrity of cell membranes and supporting immune function. It may also play a role in the prevention of certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
There are several different forms of vitamin E, including alpha-tocopherol, beta-tocopherol, gamma-tocopherol, and delta-tocopherol. Alpha-tocopherol is the most biologically active form and is the form that is most commonly found in supplements.
Food sources of vitamin E include vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables. It is also found in fortified foods, such as breakfast cereals and fortified juices. Vitamin E supplements are available in capsule, tablet, and liquid form. It is important to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian before taking vitamin E supplements, as they can interact with certain medications and may cause side effects in some people.
How much vitamin E should you supplement?
The recommended daily intake of vitamin E for adults is 15 milligrams (mg) per day. This recommendation is based on the average daily intake of vitamin E that is considered sufficient to meet the nutritional needs of most healthy adults.
However, your individual vitamin E needs may be different based on your age, sex, and health status. For example, pregnant or lactating women may need slightly more vitamin E than other adults.
It is generally recommended to get your nutrients from a balanced diet rather than relying on supplements. Foods that are rich in vitamin E include vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables. If you are considering taking a vitamin E supplement, it is important to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to determine the right dosage for you.
