E. This is easy to achieve with diet alone. Following a low-fat diet would make this level difficult, and copious amounts of oil would need to be consumes to reach these therapeutic levels. Vitamin E has a strong protective role in the reduction of atherosclerosis by preventing oxidation of LDL cholesterol. This antioxidant activity discourages the buildup of plaque on artery walls and the formation of blood clots that cause heart attacks and strokes. Free radicals play a role in the initiation and promotion of cancer.
Studies show that cancer risk is lower in people with the highest vitamin E intake.
This is particularly important in the elderly. Vitamin E may also play a role in delaying the advance of Alzheimer's Disease. The antioxidant activity of vitamin E can reduce cataract risk by 50 percent or more, as reported by the Longitudinal Study of Cataract Group as well as other investigations. Whether it be smog or smoking, the free radical destruction of red blood cells is protected by vitamin E supplementation. Research continues to demonstrate the antioxidant protection of vitamin E from free radical damage that is the beginning of major degenerative diseases.