Vitamin E
vitamin
ApprovedGeneral information about nutrients. No diagnosis, no medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or have a medical condition, talk to your doctor before taking supplements.
Overview
Fat-soluble vitamin. Vitamin E contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.
Interactions
High-dose vitamin E (>400 IU/day) can antagonize vitamin K1 by interfering with vitamin K-dependent carboxylation of clotting factors, potentially increasing bleeding risk in K1-deficient individuals.
Top 5 food sources
Expert opinions
NIH
The NIH UL of 1,000 mg/day for alpha-tocopherol is grounded in increased bleeding risk and mortality signals from the SELECT and HOPE trials at pharmacologic doses. The RDA sits at 15 mg/day and is easily met through nuts, seeds, and plant oils. Isolated dl-alpha-tocopherol (synthetic) is no longer recommended — mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols better mirror the dietary matrix. Observational data flag caution in smokers and patients on anticoagulants, where high-dose E raised adverse-event rates.
Recommended dose: 15 mg
Source: NIH
Current Research
Current evidence favors mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols over isolated alpha-tocopherol, which can deplete gamma-tocopherol. Meta-analyses show no benefit from synthetic vitamin E supplementation in healthy adults, with harm signals above 400 IU/day. Whole-food E from nuts, seeds, olive oil, and leafy greens delivers the full vitamer family. Higher-dose supplementation is reserved for documented deficiency, for example with fat malabsorption.
Source: Current Research
Expert profiles summarise publicly available statements. The named people do not cooperate with Stackwell and have not authorised these summaries. Not medical advice.
Dietary intake usually sufficient. Supplementation controversial for healthy individuals.