Vitamin E for Men: Benefits, Sources & Health Advantages

Vitamin E, a fat soluble vitamin, is an essential component of your daily multivitamin. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, protecting the body from the harmful effects of free radicals, which can damage the cells in your body. There are several forms of vitamin E; alpha-tocopherol is the form used by the human body.

Heart Disease

• Antioxidants protect the body from cell damage, and vitamin E is a good source of this substance. Eating a diet rich in vitamin E may prevent plaque from building up in the arteries that lead to your heart.

Prostate Cancer

• Free radical damage to cells is also associated with some forms of cancer. Studies have indicated that vitamin E many contribute to a decrease in the incidence of prostate cancer.

Immune Function

• In men over the age of 65, vitamin E supplements improved immune function. Upper respiratory infections and colds were reduced.

Alzheimer's

• Recent studies are showing promise in the field of Alzheimer's research. The National Institute on Aging reports that vitamin E seems to reduce Alzheimer's risk in groups with a genetic predisposition for the disease.

Muscle Repair

• Ironically, exercise increases the body's production of free radicals. Vitamin E's protective antioxidant qualities may help reduce cellular damage and improve muscle function and recovery times.

Best Sources

• A diet rich in vitamin E is the best way to maintain healthy levels of this beneficial, protective antioxidant. Foods high in vitamin E include vegetable oils, leafy green vegetables and nuts.