What is the function of vitamin E? First of all, vitamin E promotes normal growth and physical and cognitive development. In addition to this, it prevents cell damage caused by free radicals, protects the skin from ultraviolet rays and is believed to play a role in lowering the risk for prostate cancer and Alzheimer’s. Vitamin E is part of the composition of cell membranes hence its wide range of impact affecting multiple organs and systems.
Vitamin E deficiency symptoms include: digestive problems, particularly malabsorption (poor absorption of nutrients at the intestinal level), poor nerve conduction causing symptoms such as cramps, tingling or pins and needles sensation or loss of feeling in arms, hands and feet, immune system disorders caused by a weakened immune system, myopathy (muscle problems) and ataxia (very poor coordination of muscles), dry skin.
