Vitamin E: The Forgotten Vitamin

Vitamin E: The Forgotten Vitamin

When the average diner sits down to a meal, he or she is not concerned with how much vitamin E is on his or her plate. Vitamin B, maybe. Vitamin C, definitely. But vitamin E is often lost in the hustle and bustle toward healthier living. The vitamin exists in eight forms, but each of these forms is a powerful antioxidant. However, most of the foods that contain the vitamin, including vegetable oils, nuts and cereals, are often overlooked in the search for low-fat, carbohydrate-free diets, as are the benefits of this diversified antioxidant.

Avoidance

Vitamin E deficiency in humans is rare. The body does not require extensive daily intake of the vitamin, and for the most part, the grains and nuts and other sources of the vitamin are consumed at least once a day. However, for some people, vitamin E deficiency is a serious matter. Premature babies and adults with fat metabolism disorders or genetic abnormalities are at high risk for this deficiency. Vitamin E deficiency can lead to numerous neurological problems, including nerve degeneration in the feet and the hands.