Vitamin E for children: antioxidant protection
Chapter 1: The basics of vitamin E and its role in the child’s body
Vitamin E is a group of fat -soluble compounds with powerful antioxidant properties. The main form, active in the human body, is alpha-tocopherol. However, there are other forms, such as beta, gamma and delt-tocopherols, as well as tocotrienols, which also have biological activity, although to a lesser extent. In the context of children’s health, alpha-tocopherol is the most important and studied component of vitamin E.
1.1 chemical structure and form of vitamin E
Tocopherols and tocotrienols differ in the structure of the side chain. Tocopherols have a rich side chain, and tocotrienols – unsaturated. Each of these groups is divided into alpha, beta, gamma and delta form, depending on the location and number of methyl groups on the chroman ring. The activity of vitamin E is evaluated in international units (ME) or in milligrams (mg) alpha-tocopherol equivalent (α-te). It is important to note that various forms of vitamin E have different biological activity, and when calculating the needs in vitamin E, this difference should be taken into account. Synthetic vitamin E (DL-alpha-tocopherol) is less active than natural (d-alpha-tocopherol).
1.2 antioxidant properties and mechanism of action
Vitamin E is one of the key antioxidants in the body, protecting the cells from damage to 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, tobacco smoke and ultraviolet radiation. They can damage cell membranes, DNA and other important components of cells, contributing to the development of various diseases, including chronic inflammatory processes, cardiovascular diseases and some types of cancer.
The mechanism of the antioxidant action of vitamin E is its ability to give an electron to a free radical, thereby neutralizing it and preventing the chain reaction of cell damage. Vitamin E is especially important for protecting lipids in cell membranes from peroxidation peroxidation, since it is fat -soluble and concentrates in these areas. After neutralization of a free radical, vitamin E turns into a tocopherol radical, which can then be restored by other antioxidants such as vitamin C, which ensures the regeneration of antioxidant protection.
1.3 The role of vitamin E in the immune system
Vitamin E plays an important role in maintaining the normal function of the immune system in children. It helps to strengthen immunity, increasing the activity of immune cells, such as T-lymphocytes and B-lymphocytes, which are responsible for the recognition and destruction of pathogens. Vitamin E can also modulate the production of cytokines, signal molecules that regulate the immune response. Studies have shown that adequate vitamin E can reduce the risk of infectious diseases in children, especially respiratory infections. It can also increase vaccination efficiency, improving the immune response to vaccines.
1.4 Other vitamin E functions in the child’s body
In addition to antioxidant protection and support for the immune system, vitamin E performs other important functions in the children’s body. It is involved in maintaining the health of the skin and hair, contributes to the normal development of the nervous system and muscles, and also plays a role in the regulation of blood coagulation. Vitamin E is also important for the health of the eyes and can help prevent the development of some eye diseases, such as premature retinopathy. Some studies suggest that vitamin E can play a role in the prevention of allergic diseases in children, but additional studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Chapter 2: Vitamin E needs in children of different ages
The need for vitamin E varies depending on the age of the child. The optimal consumption of vitamin E is necessary to maintain health, normal growth and development. Recommendations for vitamin E consumption are usually expressed in milligrams (MG) alpha-tocopherol per day.
2.1 Recommendations for the consumption of vitamin E for babies (0-12 months)
For babies aged 0 to 6 months, the recommended rate of consumption of vitamin E is 4 mg of alpha-tocopherol per day. The main source of vitamin E for infants at this age is breast milk. Breast milk contains a sufficient amount of vitamin E to meet the needs of the baby, provided that the mother receives enough vitamin E with food. For babies on artificial feeding, it is necessary to choose mixtures enriched with vitamin E.
For babies aged 7 to 12 months, the recommended rate of consumption of vitamin E is 5 mg alpha-tocopherol per day. At this age, in addition to breast milk or a mixture, the child begins to receive complementary foods, and it is important to include in the diet products rich in vitamin E, such as vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables.
2.2 Recommendations for the consumption of vitamin E for children from 1 year to 3 years
For children aged 1 year to 3 years, the recommended rate of consumption of vitamin E is 6 mg of alpha-tocopherol per day. At this age, children should receive a diverse and balanced diet, including products rich in vitamin E. It is important to offer children vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, avocados and green leafy vegetables. Excessive consumption of processed products should be avoided, which may contain little vitamin E.
2.3 Recommendations for the consumption of vitamin E for children from 4 to 8 years old
For children aged 4 to 8 years, the recommended rate of consumption of vitamin E is 7 mg of alpha-tocopherol per day. At this age, children become more independent in the choice of food products, so it is important to teach them a healthy diet and include products rich in vitamin E. Parents should ensure that children receive enough vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, avocados and green leafy vegetables.
2.4 Recommendations for the consumption of vitamin E for children from 9 to 13 years old
For children aged 9 to 13 years, the recommended rate of consumption of vitamin E is 11 mg of alpha-tocopherol per day. At this age, children experience the period of active growth and development, so the need for vitamin E increases. It is important to ensure sufficient consumption of vitamin E with food or, if necessary, using additives. It should also be borne in mind that some diseases and conditions can increase the need for vitamin E.
2.5 Recommendations for the consumption of vitamin E for adolescents (14-18 years old)
For adolescents aged 14 to 18 years, the recommended rate of consumption of vitamin E is 15 mg alpha-tocopherol per day. Adolescents often lead an unhealthy lifestyle, use many processed products and few fruits and vegetables, which can lead to a deficiency of vitamin E. It is important to teach adolescents to healthy nutrition and encourage the use of products rich in vitamin E.
Chapter 3: Vitamin E sources in food
Vitamin E is contained in various foods, both plant and animal origin. It is important to include a variety of products in the child’s diet in order to ensure sufficient consumption of vitamin E.
3.1 Plant sources of vitamin E
Vegetable oils are one of the best sources of vitamin E. Especially rich in vitamin E oil of wheat germ, sunflower oil, safflower oil and olive oil are especially rich. Nuts and seeds are also good sources of vitamin E, especially almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds. Avocado contains a significant amount of vitamin E, as well as beneficial fats. Green sheet vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli and manhold, contain a small amount of vitamin E.
3.2 animal sources of vitamin E
Animal sources of vitamin E contain less vitamin E than plant sources. The liver, eggs and oily fish contain a small amount of vitamin E. However, these products are also important sources of other nutrients necessary for the health of the child.
3.3 enriched products
Some foods are enriched with vitamin E, such as breakfast flakes, margarine and some types of milk. The enrichment of products with vitamins and minerals is a way to increase the nutritional value of food products and can help satisfy the needs for vitamin E. It is important to read food labels to find out if the product contains vitamin E.
3.4 The effect of cooking on vitamin E content
Vitamin E is relatively stable when heated, but can collapse with prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Freedom heat can significantly reduce the content of vitamin E in food. When cooking food, sparing methods, such as steaming, stewing or baking, to maintain the content of vitamin E. should also store products rich in vitamin E, in a cool, dark place to prevent oxidation of vitamin E.
Chapter 4: Vitamin E deficiency in children: causes, symptoms and consequences
Vitamin E deficiency in children is rare, especially in developed countries where a variety of nutrition is available. However, some children are at risk of developing vitamin E.
4.1 Causes of vitamin E deficiency
Premature children, especially with a very low body weight at birth, are at risk of developing vitamin E deficiency, since they have limited vitamin E reserves and cannot effectively absorb it from food. Children with disorders of fat absorption, such as cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease and celiac disease, are also at increased risk of developing vitamin E deficiency, since vitamin E is a fat -soluble vitamin and normal absorption of fat is necessary for its assimilation. Rare genetic diseases, such as abutalipoproteinemia, can cause vitamin E deficiency, as they disrupt the transport of fats in the body. Insufficient consumption of vitamin E with food can also lead to a deficiency of vitamin E, especially in children who do not consume sufficiently vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables.
4.2 Symptoms of vitamin E deficiency
Symptoms of vitamin E deficiency in children may include neurological disorders, such as ataxia (impaired coordination of movements), muscle weakness, peripheral neuropathy (nerves damage), as well as visual impairment. In premature babies, the deficiency of vitamin E can lead to hemolytic anemia (destruction of red blood cells) and the retinopathy of premature babies (damage to the retina). Vitamin E deficiency can also weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infectious diseases.
4.3 Diagnostics Vitamin Deficit is
Diagnosis of vitamin E deficiency is usually based on clinical symptoms and blood tests. The level of vitamin E in blood serum is the main indicator for assessing the status of vitamin E. However, various factors, such as the level of lipids in the blood, can be carried out to the level of vitamin E in the blood serum, therefore, the doctor should be interpreted by the doctor. In some cases, additional examinations may be required to identify the causes of vitamin E.
4.4 Consequences Vitamin Deficit is
A long deficiency of vitamin E can lead to serious consequences for the health of the child, including irreversible neurological disorders, visual impairment and increased risk of infectious diseases. In premature babies, vitamin E deficiency can lead to blindness and other serious complications. It is important to timely identify and treat vitamin E deficiency in order to prevent the development of these complications.
Chapter 5: Excess vitamin E in children: possible risks and consequences
Vitamin E is considered a relatively safe vitamin, and excessive consumption of vitamin E with food rarely leads to any negative consequences. However, the use of high doses of vitamin E in the form of additives can be associated with some risks.
5.1 causes of excess vitamin E
Excess vitamin E most often occurs as a result of the use of high doses of vitamin E in the form of additives. Some parents give children vitamin supplements containing high doses of vitamin E, hoping to improve their health. However, in most cases, this is not justified and may even be harmful. Rarely an excess of vitamin E can occur as a result of the use of a large amount of enriched food.
5.2 Symptoms of excess vitamin E
Symptoms of excess vitamin E may include nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue and bleeding. In high doses, vitamin E can prevent blood coagulation and increase the risk of bleeding, especially in people taking anticoagulants. Some studies have shown that high doses of vitamin E can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke.
5.3 The consequences of excess vitamin E
Long -term use of high doses of vitamin E can lead to serious consequences for the health of the child, including impaired blood coagulation, increasing the risk of bleeding and hemorrhagic stroke. In rare cases, an excess of vitamin E can lead to liver failure.
5.4 The upper permissible level of vitamin e consumption
The upper permissible level of consumption of vitamin E (UL) is the maximum amount of vitamin E, which can be safely consumed daily without the risk of developing negative health consequences. For children of different age groups, the upper permissible level of consumption of vitamin E is:
- 1-3 years: 200 mg alpha-tocopherol per day
- 4-8 years: 300 mg alpha-tocopherol per day
- 9-13 years old: 600 mg alpha-tocopherol per day
- 14-18 years old: 800 mg alpha-tocopherol per day
It is important not to exceed the upper permissible level of vitamin E consumption in order to avoid the development of negative health consequences.
Chapter 6: Vitamin E additives for children: when they are necessary and how to choose them
In most cases, children can receive enough vitamin E from a balanced diet. However, in some cases, it may be necessary to take vitamin E.
6.1 Indications for taking vitamin E additives
Vitamin E additives can be recommended for children with oral disorders such as cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease and celiac disease. Premature children may also need to take vitamin E additives in rare cases, vitamin E additions can be recommended to children with genetic diseases that cause vitamin E deficiency before taking vitamin E additives should be consulted with a doctor.
6.2 forms of vitamin E additives
Vitamin E is available in various forms of additives, including capsules, tablets, liquids and chewing sweets. It is important to choose additives designed specifically for children, and observe the recommended dosage. You should also pay attention to the composition of additives and avoid additives containing artificial dyes, flavors and preservatives.
6.3 The choice of high -quality vitamin e additives
When choosing vitamin E additives, attention should be paid to the following factors:
- Reputation manufacturer: Choose additives from famous and reliable manufacturers.
- Certification: Make sure that the supplement is certified by an independent organization, such as NSF International or United States Pharmacopeia (USP). Certification guarantees that the supplement meets certain quality and safety standards.
- Composition: Study the composition of the additive and make sure that it contains only the necessary ingredients and does not contain artificial dyes, flavorings and preservatives.
- Dosage: Follow the recommended dosage indicated on the packaging or recommended by the doctor.
- Form: Choose the form of additives that is most convenient for your child.
6.4 Cautions when taking vitamin E additives
Before taking the additives of vitamin E, it is necessary to consult a doctor. You should comply with the recommended dosage and not exceed the upper permissible level of consumption of vitamin E. Tell your doctor if your child takes any medicine, since vitamin E can interact with some drugs. Keep vitamin E additives in an inaccessible place for children.
Chapter 7: Vitamin E and skin health in children
Vitamin E plays an important role in maintaining skin health in children. It helps to protect the skin from damage to free radicals, moisturizes the skin and promotes wound healing.
7.1 Antioxidant skin protection
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from damage by free radicals formed under the influence of solar radiation, environmental pollution and other factors. Free radicals can damage skin cells, causing premature aging, wrinkles and other skin problems. Vitamin E neutralizes free radicals, thereby protecting the skin from damage.
7.2 Moisturizing the skin
Vitamin E has moisturizing properties and helps maintain water balance in the skin. It forms a protective barrier on the surface of the skin, which prevents moisture loss. Vitamin E also helps to improve skin elasticity and make it softer and smooth.
7.3 wound healing
Vitamin E contributes to the healing of wounds and reduces the formation of scars. It helps to accelerate the process of skin regeneration and stimulates the formation of new cells. Vitamin E also has anti -inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and redness in the wound.
7.4 Using vitamin E for the treatment of skin diseases
Vitamin E is used to treat various skin diseases in children, such as eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. It helps reduce inflammation, itching and redness, and also improves the condition of the skin. Vitamin E can be used in the form of creams, lotions and oils for external use. Before using vitamin E, you need to consult a doctor for the treatment of skin diseases.
7.5 skin care products containing vitamin E
Many skin care products contain vitamin E, such as creams, lotions, oils and sunscreen. When choosing skin care products, you should pay attention to the content of vitamin E and choose products containing a sufficient amount of vitamin E to provide antioxidant protection and moisturizing the skin. You should also choose products that do not contain artificial dyes, flavors and preservatives.
Chapter 8: Vitamin E and vision in children
Vitamin E plays an important role in maintaining the health of the eyes and can help prevent the development of certain eye diseases in children.
8.1 Settage protection of the eye
Vitamin E is an antioxidant and helps to protect the retina from damage by free radicals. The retina contains a large amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are especially susceptible to damage to free radicals. Vitamin E neutralizes free radicals, thereby protecting the retina from damage.
8.2 Prevention of retinopathy of premature
Retinopathy of premature babies (pH) is a disease of the eyes that occurs in premature children and can lead to blindness. Vitamin E deficiency is a risk factor for the development of pH. Vitamin E additives can help prevent the development of pH in premature children.
8.3 Other eyes
Some studies suggest that vitamin E can play a role in the prevention of other eyes of eyes in children, such as cataracts and degeneration of the yellow spot. However, additional studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
8.4 Sources of vitamin E for eye health
To maintain the health of the eyes, it is important to obtain enough vitamin E with food or with the help of additives. It is recommended to consume products rich in vitamin E, such as vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables. In some cases, it may be necessary to take vitamin E additives before taking vitamin E additives must be consulted with a doctor.
Chapter 9: Vitamin E and immunity in children
Vitamin E plays an important role in maintaining the normal function of the immune system in children. It helps to strengthen immunity, increasing the activity of immune cells and modulating the production of cytokines.
9.1 Strengthening the immune system
Vitamin E helps to strengthen the immune system, increasing the activity of immune cells, such as T-lymphocytes and B-lymphocytes. T-lymphocytes are responsible for cellular immunity and the destruction of infected cells. B-lymphocytes are responsible for humoral immunity and antibodies. Vitamin E also increases the activity of natural killers (NK cells), which destroy cancer cells and cells infected with viruses.
9.2 Modulation of cytokine production
Vitamin E modulates the production of cytokines, signal molecules that regulate the immune response. It contributes to the production of anti -inflammatory cytokines and reduces the production of pro -inflammatory cytokines. This helps to balance the immune response and prevent the development of chronic inflammatory diseases.
9.3 Reduction of the risk of infectious diseases
Studies have shown that adequate vitamin E can reduce the risk of infectious diseases in children, especially respiratory infections. Vitamin E can also increase vaccination efficiency, improving the immune response to vaccines.
9.4 Vitamin E and allergy
Some studies suggest that vitamin E can play a role in the prevention of allergic diseases in children. It can help reduce the risk of allergies to food, allergic rhinitis and asthma. However, additional studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
9.5 Sources of vitamin E to strengthen immunity
To strengthen immunity, it is important to obtain enough vitamin E with food or using additives. It is recommended to consume products rich in vitamin E, such as vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables. In some cases, it may be necessary to take vitamin E additives before taking vitamin E additives must be consulted with a doctor.
Chapter 10: Conclusion and recommendations
Vitamin E plays an important role in the health and development of children, providing antioxidant protection, supporting the immune system, skin health and vision. It is important to ensure sufficient consumption of vitamin E with food, including a variety of products rich in vitamin E, such as vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables. In some cases, it may be necessary to take vitamin E additives, but before the reception, it is necessary to consult a doctor. Excessive consumption of vitamin E should be avoided, as this may be due to some risks for health. With the right approach to the consumption of vitamin E, it is possible to ensure the optimal health and development of the child.