Heart disease and vitamin E

Heart disease and vitamin E

Alternative Names:

Vitamin E and heart disease

Information:

Question:
Can vitamin E reduce your risk of getting heart disease?

Answer:
According to the American Heart Association, some studies have shown that eating foods (fruits, vegetables and whole grains) high in antioxidants (Vitamins A, E, and C) may lower a person's risk of heart disease.

However, the studies done so far have not been able to show clear-cut benefits for taking supplemental Vitamin E (pill-form) to aid in reducing the risk for heart disease.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant. As such, it protects body cells from oxidation. (Oxidation is a process that can lead to cell damage and may play an important role in atherosclerosis.)

Review Date: 1/29/2002
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial (1/29/2002). Previous review: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director; RxRemedy. (2/9/2000).

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