As an antioxidant, E is a component of cell membranes and protects the cell from free radical damage and destruction, thereby protecting against aging, cancer, and other degenerative diseases. Vitamin E has been shown to increase cell-mediated immunity in healthy elderly people. This is the same kind of immune function that is impaired in HIV disease. E has also been shown to prevent heart disease and cancer, and it slows the progression of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease and improves memory. Vitamin E increases the anti-HIV activity of AZT and reduces that drug's bone marrow toxicity.
E is the only fat-soluble vitamin that appears relatively nontoxic.
Good food sources of vitamin E are vegetable oils, fish oils, nuts, whole grains, wheat germ, soy, green leafy vegetables, and avocados. If you are using aspirin, gingko biloba, or prescription blood thinners, or if you have problems with blood coagulation, thrombocytopenia, diabetes, or rheumatic heart disease, stay with the DV, which is 30 IUs. If you have high blood pressure, as your doctor. Vitamin E may increase the risk of stroke. This is a water-soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties.