In this guide
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant and supports immunity, skin and eyes. The NHS says a varied diet usually provides enough vitamin E, and the body stores any surplus, so you do not need it every day. True deficiency in healthy adults is rare.
Who is at risk
According to a StatPearls review, deficiency mainly occurs with conditions that disrupt fat absorption. These include cystic fibrosis, chronic pancreatitis, liver diseases with reduced bile flow, Crohn's disease, the after-effects of bowel surgery and rare inherited conditions.
Signs that need a check
Deficiency develops slowly and first affects nerves and muscles. Possible signs are an unsteady walk and poor balance, tingling or reduced feeling in the hands and feet, muscle weakness and changes in vision. The same symptoms have many other causes, so do not put them down to vitamin E without a check.
Food and caution with supplements
- Use plant oils such as sunflower, rapeseed or olive oil in salads and cooking.
- Choose a handful of nuts or seeds as a snack.
- Include leafy greens such as spinach and broccoli, and cereals with wheat germ.
MedlinePlus notes that vitamin E from food is not harmful, but high-dose supplements may increase the risk of bleeding in the brain. Vitamin E can reduce blood clotting, so caution matters especially with blood thinners or aspirin. Do not take high doses on your own.
Questions for your doctor
- Could my symptoms have another cause, and which tests make sense?
- Do my conditions or medicines affect how I absorb fat and vitamins?
- Is a change in diet enough, or do I need a supplement, at what dose and for how long?
- Is a supplement safe with the medicines I take?
Sources: NHS NCBI Bookshelf (NIH) MedlinePlus.
Common questions
Can vitamin E deficiency be recognised from symptoms?
Not reliably. An unsteady walk, tingling or weakness have many causes, so a doctor should assess you and arrange tests.
Is it safe to take vitamin E just in case?
It is not needed if you eat a varied diet. The upper intake limit depends on local reference values and is neither a target nor a dose to take on your own. High doses can be harmful, especially with blood thinners, so a doctor decides on testing and dose.
Before first use
Choose products for your dietary routine and care needs. Follow a healthcare professional’s advice for diagnosis and treatment of symptoms. Check suitability first during pregnancy and for use by children.
