Vitamin E is a group of 8 fat-soluble antioxidant which acts as a protective shield against damage of cell membranes in our body. It also provides protection against the process of oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Therefore, it plays a very important role in the structural and functional maintenance of bones, muscles and our cardiac system. However, there has still not been any conclusive evidence that Vitamin E helps in the healing process of diabetes, heart disease or cancer. In fact, even when it is considered good for the eyes, there is no conclusive evidence that it helps in preventing cataracts.
Here Are Some Vitamin E Deficiency Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Causes Of Vitamin E Deficiency
Vitamin E deficiencies are very rare, especially in humans. It occurs in extreme cases to people who cannot absorb dietary fats, have serious or prolonged disease of the digestive system, gall bladder stones, Crohn’s disease or cystic fibrosis. While going for a weight-loss diet, it is very important to remember the aspect of Vitamin E content, because low-fat diets may also cause Vitamin E deficiency. Sometimes, Premature babies are born with Vitamin E deficiency.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Vitamin E deficiency depends on the age of a patient. Some patients may be born with this deficiency, while others may develop it at a later stage either as an infant and through adulthood.
Vitamin E Deficiency Symptoms In Infants
Infants are usually unable to understand or explain the issues they are experiencing. Therefore, it is crucial to observe and monitor them properly. Some of thee early signs of Vitamin E deficiency in infants are poor or slow mental and physical growth and development, under-weight, an eye disease called Retrolental Fibroplasia and unhealthy eating habits.
Vitamin E Deficiency Symptoms In Children
After infancy, children enter the growth phase when a lot of structural and functional changes, growth and development takes place in the body and mind. Look for the symptoms to rule out any possibility of Vitamin E deficiency. These signs and symptoms are slow growth, lack of position senses, poor muscles, drooping of upper eyelid, lack of vibration, dysarthria, weakness of the muscles, loss of tendon reflexes and ophthalmoplegia. However, the list is not all inclusive.
Vitamin E Deficiency Symptoms In Adults
The symptoms of vitamin E deficiency become quite prominent in adults. The alarming signals associated with the deficiency includes issues with reproduction and fertility, low sex drive, neurological issues, early signs of aging, functional abnormalities with bone marrow, liver, brain and muscles, apart from anemia and fragile RBC.
General Signs Of Vitamin E Deficiency
Frequent leg cramps, slow tissue repair process, excessive dryness or loss of hair, poor digestive system are the common signs and symptoms that can occur to a person with vitamin E deficiency.
Treatment For Vitamin E deficiency
It is always advisable to seek professional medical advice instead of self medication for a patient diagnosed with Vitamin E deficiency. Supplemental α-tocopherol or mixed tocopherols (α-, β-, and γ-tocopherols) is usually suggested. It is also important to manage the underlying medical conditions like cystic fibrosis, chronic cholestasis, short bowel syndrome, etc.
Along with medications, it is also essential to switch to a Vitamin E rich diet. Some of the food that are rich in Vitamin E are almonds, roasted sunflower seeds, shrimp, dark leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli, avocados, trout fish, pumpkin, olive oil, fruits like mango, kiwi, peach, apricot, guava, etc. However, as already mentioned, vitamin E deficiency are rare unless there is an underlying medical condition, the primary focus should be on treating the underlying disease or medical condition, which will help in restoring the normal level of vitamin E in the body.