Naturally found in foods in vegetables oils and shortening, vitamin E is an important antioxidant for the body and is a fat-soluble vitamin. You can also get vitamin E from sources such as meat, eggs, milk and leafy vegetables so there is no real reason why you should ever run a deficit.

Vitamin E has the main role in the body of protecting the tissues against damage that is usually caused by substances called free radicals. These free radicals can cause a great deal of harm to cells and organs and are also associated with speeding up the aging process.

Another function of this antioxidant is to help the body use vitamin K, which is important to maintain proper blood clotting. Furthermore, having a high level of this antioxidant in the body can help to prevent cancer, heart disease, dementia, liver disease as well as stroke.

You should try not to consume over 400 IU's per day however as at this type of intake it could become fatal. Since it can accumulate in the body fat stores over time, even intakes slightly above recommended could be problematic in the future.

The recommended dosage to take for those fourteen years and older is 15 mg/day. Women who are currently breastfeeding however may need higher amounts and should speak to their doctor about this.