As many as 1 in 9 people take Vitamin E supplements with the goal of maintaining health and preventing disease. Actually Vitamin E represents the collective name for a group of fat soluble vitamins with antioxidant activities. Of the 8 naturally occurring members of the family, the body utilizes only the alpha tocopherol form.

Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and protects cell membranes. It prevents conversion of LDL or bad cholesterol from evolving into its more toxic or oxidized form and neutralizes free radicals. Additionally it may boost immune function, regulate gene expression and inhibit activity of enzymes involved in cell proliferation.

Despite these changes occurring in test tubes and animal models, the benefits of Vitamin E in humans remains unclear. Investigations regarding prevention of heart disease fail to demonstrate positive results. In fact evidence suggests an increase in both all cause mortality and hemorrhagic stroke associated with Vitamin E. Similarly Vitamin E lacks protective effects against cancer. Vitamin E also may interfere with radiation and cancer chemotherapy.

While Vitamin E may play a small protective role in those already with signs of acute macular degeneration, other studies suggest the benefit relates to the mineral contents of oral combination preparation. Vitamin E does not prevent cataracts.

No RDA exists for Vitamin E. Instead government scientists suggest an Adequate Intake of 15 mg for adults with somewhat higher amounts during pregnancy and lactation. Recent conversion of IU – International Units – to milligrams is now basically complete. One milligram of natural Vitamin E translates to 1.49 IU of natural Vitamin E and 2.22 IU of the synthetic form.