Vitamin E: Antioxidant for the heart

Vitamin E: Antioxidant for the heart

I. Introduction to vitamin E: molecular structure and diversity

Vitamin E is not a single substance, but a group of eight fat -soluble compounds, known as tocopherols and tocotrienols. Each of these subgroups consists of four forms: alpha (α), beta (β), gamma (γ) and delta (δ). These forms are distinguished by the position and the number of methyl groups on the chroman ring, which affects their biological activity and antioxidant properties.

• Tocopherols: The most common and studied form of vitamin E. alpha-tocopherol (α-tocopherol) is considered the most active form in the human body and is priority to be supported in blood plasma. He is responsible for maintaining the health of cell membranes and is involved in various metabolic processes. Beta, gamma and the-tocopherols also have antioxidant properties, but their activity in the human body can be lower than that of alpha-tocopherol.

• Tokotrienols: They have a structure similar to tocopherols, but have three double connections in the side chain of isoprenoid. This difference in the structure gives tocotrienals unique properties, including higher mobility in cell membranes and potentially more pronounced antioxidant activity in some situations. Tokotrienols also demonstrate anti -inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.

Molecular structure:

All forms of vitamin E consist of a chroman ring and a side chain. The chroman ring is key to antioxidant activity, as it contains a hydroxyl group that can give hydrogen and neutralize free radicals. The lateral chain is responsible for vitamin E fatty and its interaction with cell membranes.

Differences between forms:

• Alfa-Tokoferol (α-tocopherol): It has the greatest bioavailability and is the main regulator of vitamin E in the blood.
• Beta-tocopherol (β-tocopherol): It has a methyl group in a different position than alpha-tocopherol, which affects its antioxidant activity.
• Gamma-Tokoferol (γ-tocopherol): Contained in large quantities in vegetable oils and can play an important role in neutralizing some types of free radicals.
• Delta-tocopherol (δ-Tocopherol): It has the smallest antioxidant activity compared to other tocopherols.
• Alpha-Tokotrienol (α-tocotrienol): It has potentially higher antioxidant activity due to its structure.
• Beta-tocotrienol (β-tocotrienol): It has similar properties to alpha-tookotrienol, but is distinguished by the position of a methyl group.
• Gamma-Tokotrienol (γ-Tokotrienol): Widely distributed in vegetable oils, especially in palm oil.
• Delta-Tokotrienol (δ-Tocotrienol): It has anti -inflammatory properties and can be useful for the prevention of diseases.

II. Antioxidant properties of vitamin E: action mechanism

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules formed as a result of normal metabolic processes, as well as under the influence of external factors, such as environmental pollution, smoking and ultraviolet radiation. They can damage DNA, proteins and lipids, which leads to the development of various diseases, including cardiovascular.

The mechanism of action:

Vitamin E acts as a “dodger” of free radicals. He gives the hydrogen atom of the hydroxyl group of the chroman ring to a free radical, neutralizing it and preventing damage to other molecules. After the return of the hydrogen atom, vitamin E itself turns into a radical form, but it is quite stable and can be restored by other antioxidants such as vitamin C or glutathione.

Lipid protection:

One of the key functions of vitamin E is the protection of lipids of cell membranes from lipid oxidation (floor). Paul is a chain reaction, which leads to the destruction of cell membranes and the formation of toxic products. Vitamin E, being in the lipid phase of the membrane, effectively interrupts this reaction, preventing cell damage.

Interaction with other antioxidants:

Vitamin E works in synergy with other antioxidants such as vitamin C, glutathione and selenium. Vitamin C restores the oxidized form of vitamin E, and glutathione and selenium are involved in the work of the fermenting glutathioneperoxidase, which also protects cells from oxidative stress.

Antioxidant activity of various forms:

Different forms of vitamin E have different antioxidant activity. Gamma-Tokoferol, for example, is more effective in neutralizing some types of free radicals than alpha-tocopherol. Tokotrienols, due to their structure, can be more effective in protecting cells from oxidative stress in certain situations.

III. Vitamin E and cardiovascular system: protection against atherosclerosis

Cardiovascular diseases (SVD) are a leading cause of mortality around the world. Atherosclerosis, the main cause of the CVD, is characterized by the accumulation of lipids and inflammatory cells in the walls of the arteries, which leads to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Vitamin E plays an important role in protecting the cardiovascular system from the development of atherosclerosis.

Protection mechanisms:

• Prevention of LDL oxidation: Lipoproteins of low density (LDL), or “poor cholesterol”, play a key role in the development of atherosclerosis. Oxidized LDLs are more prone to accumulation in the walls of arteries and stimulate the inflammatory process. Vitamin E prevents LDL oxidation, protecting them from modification and reducing their atherogenicity.
• Inhibition of platelet aggregation: Platelet aggregation is the process of sticking platelets, which can lead to blood clots. Vitamin E has antitromobocytic properties, reducing the risk of blood clots and preventing the development of myocardial infarction and stroke.
• Improving the function of the endothelium: Endothelium is the inner layer of cells lining the blood vessels. It plays an important role in the regulation of vascular tone and preventing blood clots. Vitamin E improves the function of the endothelium, contributing to the expansion of blood vessels and a decrease in the risk of the development of SVD.
• Reduced inflammation: Inflammation plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. Vitamin E has anti -inflammatory properties, reducing the level of inflammatory markers in the blood and reducing inflammation in the walls of arteries.
• Protection against damage by reperfusion: Reperfusion is the restoration of blood flow in the tissue after a period of ischemia (lack of oxygen). Although reperfusion is necessary for saving tissue, it can lead to additional damage due to the formation of free radicals. Vitamin E protects the tissue from damage by reperfusion, neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation.

Clinical research:

Numerous clinical studies studied the effect of vitamin E on the cardiovascular system. Some studies have shown that vitamin E intake reduces the risk of CVD, especially in people with high risk. Other studies have not revealed a significant effect. Research results may vary due to differences in research design, vitamin E dosages and participants’ characteristics.

Important aspects:

• It is important to note that vitamin E is not a “miraculous” remedy from the SVD. It is only one of the factors affecting the health of the cardiovascular system.
• For the prevention of SSZ, it is necessary to adhere to a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, regular physical exercises, refusal to smoking and maintaining a healthy weight.
• Before taking vitamin E, you need to consult a doctor as an additive, especially if you have any diseases or take other medicines.

IV. Sources of vitamin E: food and additives

Vitamin E can be obtained from various foods, as well as in the form of additives. It is important to know which products are rich in vitamin E in order to ensure its sufficient intake in the body.

Food:

• Vegetable oils: The richest sources of vitamin E are vegetable oils, such as wheat germ oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, olive oil and corn oil.
• Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds, are also good sources of vitamin E.
• Green sheet vegetables: Green leaf vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli and manhold, contain vitamin E, although in smaller quantities than vegetable oils and nuts.
• Avocado: Avocado is a good source of vitamin E, as well as beneficial fats and other nutrients.
• Enriched products: Some products, such as breakfast and margarine flakes, are enriched with vitamin E.

Vitamin E additives:

Vitamin E is available as various additives, including capsules, tablets and liquid forms. Vitamin E additives may contain different forms of vitamin E, such as alpha-tocopherol, beta-tocopherol, gamma-tocopherol and tocotrienols.

Forms of additives:

• D-alpha-tocopherol: This is a natural form of vitamin E, which is better absorbed by the body than a synthetic form.
• DL-alpha tocopherol acetate: This is a synthetic form of vitamin E, which is less active than a natural form.
• Mixed tocopherols: Additions containing a mixture of tocopherols can be more useful than additives containing only alpha-tocopherol.
• Tokotrienols: Tokotrienol additives can have unique health benefits, but additional studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness.

Choosing additives:

When choosing additives of vitamin E, it is important to consider the following factors to consider:

• Form of vitamin E: It is preferable to choose additives containing a natural form of vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol) or a mixture of tocopherols.
• Dosage: The dosage of vitamin E must comply with your individual needs. The recommended daily dose of vitamin E is 15 mg (22.4 IU).
• Quality product: It is important to choose additives from reliable manufacturers that guarantee the quality and purity of the product.
• Composition: Pay attention to the composition of the additive and make sure that it does not contain harmful additives or allergens.

Important aspects:

• Before taking the additives of vitamin E, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take other drugs.
• Too high doses of vitamin E can be harmful to health.
• It is better to get vitamin E from food, not from additives.

V. Recommended daily dose of vitamin E and possible risks

The recommended daily dose (RSD) of vitamin E for adults is 15 mg (22.4 IU). This dose provides sufficient vitamin E intake in the body to maintain health and protect against deficiency. However, the need for vitamin E can vary depending on the age, gender, state of health and other factors.

Recommended doses for different population groups:

• Infants (0-6 months): 4 Mg (6 Me)
• Infants (7-12 months): 5 mg (7.5 ME)
• Children (1-3 years old): 6 mg (9 me)
• Children (4-8 years old): 7 mg (10.4 ME)
• Children (9-13 years old): 11 mg (16.4 ME)
• Teenagers (14-18 years old): 15 mg (22.4 ME)
• Adults (19 years and older): 15 mg (22.4 ME)
• Pregnant women: 15 mg (22.4 ME)
• Women’s nursing: 19 Mg (28.4 ME)

The upper permissible level of consumption (vdup):

The upper permissible level of consumption (binding) of vitamin E is 1000 mg (1500 IU) per day. This means that taking vitamin E in doses exceeding the clock can be harmful to health.

Risks associated with high consumption of vitamin E:

• Increased risk of bleeding: Vitamin E has antitromobocytic properties that can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in people who take anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents.
• Reduced blood coagulation: High doses of vitamin E can reduce blood coagulation, which can be dangerous for injuries or operations.
• Interaction with drugs: Vitamin E can interact with some drugs such as anticoagulants, antiplatelets and statins.
• Increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke: Some studies have shown that high doses of vitamin E can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke (brain hemorrhage).
• Nausea, diarrhea, headache and fatigue: In rare cases, high doses of vitamin E can cause nausea, diarrhea, headache and fatigue.

Vitamin Deficit E:

Vitamin E deficiency is rare, since most people get a sufficient amount of vitamin E from food. However, vitamin E deficiency can occur in people with impaired fat absorption, such as cystic fibrosis, crown disease or intestinal resection.

Symptoms of vitamin E deficiency:

• Muscle weakness: Vitamin E plays an important role in maintaining muscle health, and its deficiency can lead to muscle weakness.
• Coordination violation: Vitamin E deficiency can damage the nervous system, which leads to a violation of coordination.
• Nerves damage: Vitamin E deficiency can cause damage to nerves, which leads to numbness, tingling and pain in the arms and legs.
• The weakness of the immune system: Vitamin E plays an important role in maintaining the health of the immune system, and its deficiency can weaken the immune system.
• Vision problems: Vitamin E deficiency can damage the retina, which leads to vision problems.

Important aspects:

• It is recommended to receive vitamin E from food, and not from additives, if possible.
• Before taking the additives of vitamin E, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take other drugs.
• Do not exceed the bucket of vitamin E.

VI. Interaction of vitamin E with other nutrients and drugs

Vitamin E interacts with other nutrients and drugs, which can affect its effectiveness and safety.

Interaction with other nutrients:

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C helps to restore the oxidized form of vitamin E, returning to it antioxidant activity.
• Selenium: Selenium is a component of the enzyme glutathioneperoxidase, which also protects cells from oxidative stress. Vitamin E and selenium work in synergy to protect cells from damage to free radicals.
• Vitamin K: Vitamin E can affect vitamin K metabolism, which plays an important role in blood coagulation. High doses of vitamin E can reduce the level of vitamin K in the blood.
• Coenzim Q10 (COQ10): Vitamin E and COQ10 are fat -soluble antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative stress. They can work in synergies to improve the health of the cardiovascular system.

Interaction with drugs:

• Anticoagulants and anti -agents: Vitamin E has antitromobocytic properties that can enhance the effect of anticoagulants and antiplatelets, such as warfarin, clopidogrel and aspirin. This can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Statin: Statins are drugs used to reduce blood cholesterol. Vitamin E can reduce statin efficiency.
• Chemotherapeutic drugs: Vitamin E can interact with some chemotherapeutic drugs, reducing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Radiation therapy: Vitamin E can protect the cells from damage caused by radiation therapy, but can also reduce the effectiveness of radiation therapy for cancer cells.

Important aspects:

• If you take any medication, be sure to consult a doctor before taking vitamin E.
• The doctor can evaluate potential risks and advantages of taking vitamin E in your case and give recommendations for the dosage and form of vitamin E.
• You should not independently adjust the dosage of drugs or additives without consulting a doctor.

VII. Vitamin E and other diseases: role in prevention and treatment

Vitamin E plays an important role not only in protecting the cardiovascular system, but also in the prevention and treatment of other diseases.

Cancer:

Some studies have shown that vitamin E can reduce the risk of developing some types of cancer, such as prostate cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer. However, other studies have not revealed a significant effect. Additional studies are needed to confirm the role of vitamin E in cancer prevention.

Age macular degeneration (VMD):

Age macular degeneration (VMD) is a disease of the eye, which leads to the loss of central vision. Some studies have shown that taking vitamin E in combination with other antioxidants may slow down the progression of the VMD.

Alzheimer’s disease:

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease that leads to a loss of memory and cognitive functions. Some studies have shown that vitamin E can slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in the early stages. However, other studies have not revealed a significant effect.

Non -alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAZBP):

Non -alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAZBP) is a liver disease that is characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver. Some studies have shown that vitamin E can improve the condition of the liver in people with NAZBP.

Diabetes sugar:

Diabetes mellitus is a disease that is characterized by a high blood sugar. Vitamin E can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of diabetes complications.

Asthma:

Astma is a chronic respiratory disease, which is characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the respiratory tract. Vitamin E has anti -inflammatory properties that can help with asthma.

Important aspects:

• Vitamin E is not a replacement for traditional methods of treating diseases.
• Before using vitamin E, it is necessary to consult a doctor as an addition to the treatment of diseases.
• Do not independently treat diseases with vitamin E.

VIII. Modern studies of vitamin E: new prospects

Modern studies of vitamin E continue to disclose new prospects for its use in medicine.

Tokotrienols:

Tokotrienols, less studied forms of vitamin E, attract more and more attention of researchers. They have unique properties that can be healthy. Studies show that tocotrienols can have a higher antioxidant activity than tocopherols, and can be effective in the prevention of cancer, SVD and neurodegenerative diseases.

Genomic effects:

Vitamin E can influence the expression of genes, which can explain its numerous useful effects. Studies show that vitamin E can regulate the expression of genes associated with inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis (programmable cell death).

Nanotechnology:

Nanotechnologies are used to develop new ways to deliver vitamin E to the body. Nanoparticles can improve the bioavailability of vitamin E and direct it to certain tissues and organs.

Individual approach:

In the future, the approach to the use of vitamin E can become more individual. Genetic factors, health status and lifestyle can affect the need for vitamin E and its effectiveness.

Important aspects:

• Despite the new prospects, additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of new methods of using vitamin E.
• You should not independently use new methods of treating vitamin E without consulting a doctor.

IX. Conclusion: Vitamin E as an important component of a healthy lifestyle

Vitamin E is an important fat-soluble antioxidant that plays a key role in maintaining the health of the cardiovascular system and protecting cells from damage to free radicals. Obtaining a sufficient amount of vitamin E from food or additives can be useful for the prevention of various diseases. However, before taking vitamin E additives, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to avoid possible risks and interactions with drugs. Vitamin E is an important component of a healthy lifestyle, but is not a replacement for a balanced diet, regular physical exercises and rejection of bad habits.

Keywords: Vitamin E, antioxidant, heart, cardiovascular system, atherosclerosis, LDL oxidation, inflammation, tocopherols, tocotrienols, food products, additives, recommended daily dose, drug interaction, cancer, Alzheimer disease, modern studies.