Vitamin A+E – what are they good for? Discover their properties and uses
Vitamins A+E are fat-soluble compounds that play a key role in protecting the body against free radicals and oxidative stress. They are also essential for maintaining proper vision as well as the health of the skin and mucous membranes. Their deficiency may lead to night blindness, slow wound healing, and even reduced immunity.
Where can you find vitamin A+E and what are their benefits? What risks are linked to long-term deficiency of vitamins A and E? When is it worth considering vitamin A and E supplementation?
Table of Contents
- What Are The Effects Of Vitamin A+E?
- Daily Requirement For Vitamins E And A – How To Provide Them Through Diet And Supplementation?
- Vitamin A And E Deficiency – Symptoms, Effects, And Possible Complications
- Who Should Supplement Vitamin A+E?
- Contraindications And Possible Side Effects Of Supplementation
What Are The Effects Of Vitamin A+E?
Vitamins are low-molecular organic compounds, most of which must be supplied to the body with food. Among the fat-soluble vitamins, alongside vitamin D and vitamin K, are vitamins A and E.
The presence of vitamins A and E in the body is essential for many biochemical processes. Vitamin A, which represents a group of biologically active organic compounds, takes part in skin cell differentiation, helps maintain proper vision, and supports the immune system.
Vitamin E, a group of eight organic compounds with similar structures, is one of the main antioxidants protecting cells against oxidative stress and the harmful effects of free radicals. Thanks to its antioxidant properties, it slows down cellular aging processes and helps maintain healthy skin. In addition, it improves the stability of epithelial tissues and mucous membranes, protects red blood cells, and plays an important role in proper wound healing.
Healthy And Radiant Skin
An adequate level of vitamins A+E plays an important role in maintaining healthy-looking skin. These compounds slow down cellular aging processes, which is why they are widely used in the cosmetic industry for the production of skincare and dermatological products.
In addition to improving skin elasticity, they reduce wrinkles and minimize discoloration. They also stimulate the expression of type I and III procollagen genes in the skin, contributing to the formation of more collagen fibers. Vitamin A plus E for the face smooths the skin, prevents dryness, and protects it against harmful external factors.
Better Vision And Eye Protection
Vitamin E together with vitamin A play an important role in maintaining the proper functioning of the eyes. These compounds act as powerful antioxidants, protecting eye cells from damage and helping keep them moisturized. A deficiency of these substances in the body may lead to night blindness, a condition characterized by impaired ability to see in low light.
Fertility And The Reproductive System
Vitamin E together with vitamin A also play an important role in fertility. Vitamin A is involved in reproductive processes, supports the growth of young organisms, and has a positive impact on embryonic development. Vitamin E supports ovulation in women and contributes to proper fetal development, while in men it affects sperm production and hormone regulation.
Strong Bones And Osteoporosis Prevention
Vitamins A+E, which are essential for proper body function, also play a significant role in maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis. In addition to supporting collagen production, they are responsible for maintaining balance in the bone mineralization process. Vitamin A is necessary for proper bone formation, while vitamin E benefits bones by protecting them against inflammation and damage.
Prevention Of Cardiovascular Diseases
Vitamins A+E protect red blood cells and epithelial tissues, making them an important element in preventing cardiovascular diseases such as ischemic heart disease, atherosclerosis, hypertension, or thrombophlebitis. Thanks to their antioxidant properties, they protect cells against the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species, which can damage the heart and destroy blood vessel walls.
Support For The Liver And Metabolic Processes
An adequate level of vitamins A and E is also important for liver health. These compounds support proper organ regeneration and help repair liver cells. Additionally, vitamin E may delay the onset of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and prevent cirrhosis by modulating the inflammatory response, especially in patients without diabetes or advanced fibrosis.
Daily Requirement For Vitamins E And A – How To Provide Them Through Diet And Supplementation?
Vitamins E and A, like vitamin C or B vitamins, must be supplied to the body through food. These compounds can be found in foods such as egg yolks, milk, cheese, fish, meats, and certain vegetables (spinach, pumpkin, carrots, lettuce, broccoli). Vitamin E is also present in plant oils (such as sunflower oil and olive oil).
The daily requirement for vitamin A is 900 µg for men and 700 µg for women. For vitamin E, it should be supplied in amounts between 5 and 10 mg per day. Higher demand for this compound is observed in women during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
If the diet does not provide sufficient amounts of these vitamins, dietary supplements in the form of tablets, capsules, or powders can be used. As with other vitamins and minerals, their use should be consulted with a doctor. It is also important to remember that supplements cannot replace a balanced diet. A well-rounded diet and a healthy lifestyle are key factors for the proper functioning of the body.
Vitamin A And E Deficiency – Symptoms, Effects, And Possible Complications
Deficiencies of vitamins A and E can manifest through a variety of symptoms. Insufficient levels of these compounds in the body may be associated not only with worsening skin condition but also with:
- vision problems
- fatigue
- weakened immunity
- neuromuscular dysfunctions
- reduced concentration
- hair loss and brittleness
Long-term deficiency of these vitamins is especially dangerous, as it may lead to impaired vision, fertility disorders, and growth retardation (in children).
Who Should Supplement Vitamin A+E?
Supplementation is recommended primarily for people with deficiencies, which may show up as increased susceptibility to infections or skin problems. The use of natural vitamin A+E in drops or tablets can also be considered in times of high stress, excessive eye strain (e.g., during prolonged computer work), menstrual cycle issues, as well as certain conditions such as malabsorption disorders or cardiovascular diseases.
Contraindications And Possible Side Effects Of Supplementation
There are several situations in which taking vitamin A+E supplements is not recommended. They should be avoided especially by people with severe liver failure or cirrhosis, malabsorption syndrome, bile duct obstruction, and in cases after jejunoileal bypass.
Caution should be exercised during supplementation, as an excess of these vitamins may cause side effects such as irritability, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Long-term intake of high doses may lead to damage to the circulatory system and impaired liver function.
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