Vitamin E and free radicals

Vitamin E believed to help protect against free radicals

Article Summary:

Antioxidants such as vitamin E act to protect your cells against the effects of free radicals, which are potentially damaging by-products of energy metabolism. Free radicals can damage cells and may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Studies are underway to determine whether vitamin E, through its ability to limit production of free radicals, might help prevent or delay the development of those chronic diseases. Vitamin E has also been shown to play a role in immune function, in DNA repair, and other metabolic processes.

Institution:

Office of Dietary Supplements, Warren G. Magnusen Clinical Center

Country of Publication:

USA

Source:

National Institutes of Health

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