5 Signs of Vitamin E Deficiency
Vitamin E is your beauty and your immunity. How to understand that tocopherol level is low, and how to increase it?
Dr. Helga
Doctor Allergist-Immunologist
Vitamin E (Tocopherol) is one of the main vitamins responsible for our beauty, as it acts as a powerful antioxidant. It improves the moisture and elasticity of the skin and has a valuable healing effect. Tocopherol esters are often used in cosmetics and body products. Additionally, Vitamin E has anti-inflammatory and immunostimulant effects, supporting brain health, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, and age-related macular degeneration, which is a common cause of blindness.
How do you recognize Vitamin E deficiency?
Vitamin E deficiency can be caused by an unbalanced diet and internal organ disorders. The human body cannot produce Vitamin E, therefore it is necessary to ensure its intake of food. For high-quality assimilation of Vitamin E, the body must have a required amount of fat, as Vitamin E accumulates in muscles, liver, nerve cells, and fatty layers. The following symptoms may indicate a Vitamin E deficiency:
- Weak immunity
- Muscle weakness
- Deterioration of visual acuity
- Dryness and hair loss
- Pigmented spots on the hands
Important! Please note that in women, Vitamin E deficiency leads to menstrual irregularities and difficulties in becoming pregnant as well as increases the risk of miscarriage.
Lack of Vitamin E decreases muscle mass and subsequently causes weight loss. This is most observable in overweight people who have not changed their diet.
Causes of Vitamin E Deficiency:
- Viral or bacterial infections that disrupt the intestinal microflora
- Problems with the gastrointestinal tract
- Parasites
- Body intoxication
- Taking antibiotics long-term
- Radiation poisoning
How to replenish a lack of Vitamin E?
Adults should get at least 15 mg of Vitamin E per day. Eggs (especially yolks), nuts, vegetable oils, grains, and herbs are rich in tocopherol. However, if a person exhibits symptoms indicating a lack of Vitamin E, it requires more than just a change in diet and a medical diagnosis is needed.
Careful! You should not consume Vitamin E thoughtlessly and constantly. Tocopherol overdose reduces blood clotting, which can lead to bleeding and other side effects. If you suspect this is happening to you, please consult a specialist for blood testing.
23 March 2021