MEXICO CITY (EL UNIVERSAL) – Vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient that protects cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are found in cigarette smoke, air pollution and ultraviolet solar radiation.
Additionally, this vitamin helps stimulate the immune system to fight invading bacteria and viruses, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Therefore, its deficiency can lead to reflex and coordination dysfunction, as well as difficulty walking and muscle weakness.
What foods contain vitamin E? According to an article published by the NIH, vitamin E can be obtained naturally through a variety of foods, such as: vegetable oils, wheat germ oil, sunflower and safflower oils, corn oil, soybeans; found in dried fruits, peanuts, hazelnuts, walnuts, Especially in almonds.
Likewise, it is also found in sunflower seeds. and in green leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli.
While the vast majority of people can get this vitamin through food, some people have medical conditions that prevent them from properly absorbing the nutrient from their diet, so they must consult a specialist to tell them which supplements are ideal and in what amounts.
And a person cannot take vitamin supplements on their own as this may cause damage to the body. It is worth mentioning that an overdose of this vitamin can lead to hemorrhagic stroke in the most severe cases.
What health conditions can hinder the absorption of vitamin E? According to the Merck Manual of General Medical Information, some people develop digestive problems due to insufficient production of digestive enzymes, malabsorption, decreased bile production, too much stomach acid, too little stomach acid (atrophic gastritis), and improper growth of stomach acid. Bacteria in the small intestine. There are also Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis and certain genetic diseases.
Therefore, it is important to have regular medical check-ups to confirm that nutrients are being absorbed correctly to avoid damage to the body.
A lack of vitamin E in the body can lead to nerve and muscle damage, loss of sensation in the limbs, loss of control of body movements, muscle weakness, vision problems, and in some cases, a weakened immune system.
Experts emphasize taking adequate doses of vitamins, which must be approved by a doctor or nutrition expert.