Vitamin E

Vitamin E, also known as alpha-tocopherol, is a compound with various biological effects, including estrogen antagonism, energy promotion, and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been identified to inhibit the activity of 5-lipoxigenase and accelerate leukotriene synthesis, changing the final spectrum of leukotrienes in the organism tissues 1. Vitamin E has also been shown to have antioxidant activity and gene-regulatory properties, particularly in cultured human hepatocytes 4.

The effectiveness of alpha-tocopherol in reducing the incidence of spherical contracture around breast implants has been demonstrated, with no harmful side effects noted in patients 2. However, some individuals may experience digestive cramps and bloating within 30 minutes of using Vitamin E orally, likely due to the viscous, oily quality of the compound 6.

The definition of Vitamin E has undergone changes over the years, initially being recognized as a fertility-extending, anti-estrogen chemical in the 1920s and 30s, then rebranded as an antioxidant in the 1940s, and now being recognized again as an anti-inflammatory, estrogen-regulating substance 5. A recommended daily dose of Vitamin E is around 20-30 milligrams, which is different from the International Units (IU) measurement 5.

Studies have demonstrated the potential benefits of Vitamin E in restoring cardiac health after a heart attack, with a low-dose alpha-tocopherol administration restoring heart function to normal within 3 days 7. A good quality Vitamin E supplement is thought to be one that contains a mixture of non-racemic natural forms, such as alpha and gamma tocopherols, rather than synthetic D,L-alpha tocopherol 8.