Vitamin E and immune response

[Guest guest]

Hi All, It seems that vitamin E strengthens the immune system and it is good

for other things.

Cheers, Al.

http://www.latimes.com/features/health/la-he-supplement28apr28,1,5682372.sto

ry?coll=la%2Dheadlines%2Dhealth

April 28, 2003

SUPPLEMENTS

Vitamin E strengthens the immune system

A University of California anatomy professor

researching reproduction in rats discovered vitamin E

in 1922. In humans, the powerful antioxidant is

essential for healthy eyes and skin, as well as a strong

immune system. Vitamin E exists as eight individual

compounds abundant in a variety of fruits and green

vegetables, including avocados, mangos and turnip

greens.

Uses: The first reported use of the vitamin was

by a Canadian doctor who gave the supplement to his

patients in the 1940s to treat cardiovascular disease.

Today it is used to boost the immune system and

prevent vitamin E deficiency in people on low-fat diets

and others who have trouble absorbing enough of the

fat-soluble vitamin from their diet. Some doctors

recommend vitamin E for preventing heart attacks and

several forms of cancer. Studies have also found that it

may help prevent cataracts and slow the progression of

Alzheimer's disease.

Dose: Supplements should not

exceed 400IU (about 270 mg) a day in pill, capsule or

powder form. The vitamin is also often added to skin

creams, ointments, oils and lotions.

Precautions:

Vitamin E is considered safe, but an overdose can

cause nausea, headaches and fatigue. People with iron

deficiency or thyroid problems should consult with their

physician before taking supplements. Long-term safety

has not been studied.

Research: Research on the

vitamin's effects on heart disease, Alzheimer's disease,

cataracts, male fertility and cancer has produced an

abundance of conflicting results. Current studies are investigating its

effects on

heart disease, multiple sclerosis and prostate cancer.

Dietary supplement makers are not required by the U.S. government to

demonstrate that their products are safe or effective. Ask your health-care

provider for advice on selecting a brand. * — Elena Conis

Alan Pater, Ph.D.; Faculty of Medicine; Memorial University; St. 's, NL

A1B 3V6 Canada; Tel. No.: (709) 777-6488; Fax No.: (709) 777-7010; email:

apater@...