Vitamin E and zinc are essential nutrients with antioxidant properties that support the immune system and may prevent diseases associated with free radicals. Vitamin E is found in foods like wheat germ and can be taken as a supplement, but high levels can be harmful. Zinc is found in cells throughout the body and is essential for growth and development. It can be found in foods like oysters and meat, and is included in most multivitamins. Both vitamin E and zinc can help reduce the risk of oxidant-related diseases.
Vitamin E and zinc are essential nutrients with antioxidant properties, and they support the function of the human immune system by suppressing the action of free radicals in the body. Found naturally in a variety of foods, vitamin E and zinc can also be taken as supplements to enhance immune support. Research suggests that vitamin E and zinc may play a role in preventing or delaying the onset of some cancers and other diseases associated with free radical activity, and in reducing the effects of viruses such as common cold. However, high levels of supplementation, particularly vitamin E, can be harmful.
There are eight antioxidant-rich compounds that share the name “vitamin E,” and they appear to protect cells from the damaging effect of free radicals. Of these, alpha tocopherol is the only form that can be maintained in human blood plasma. A fat-soluble compound, vitamin E is retained in the body’s lipocytes, or fat storage cells.
Vitamin E is found naturally in foods such as wheat germ, sunflower seeds, almonds and other nuts, broccoli, and tomatoes. Although a varied diet that includes foods rich in vitamin E usually provides a sufficient amount of this compound, it can also be purchased as part of an overall multivitamin supplement or as a single product in doses as high as 400 International Units (IU) for more support. Antioxidant Supplementation can be beneficial, especially during periods of stress or illness, but regular consumption of more than 400 IU daily of vitamin E can contribute to an overall higher risk of death because it is not regularly cleared from the system.
Like vitamin E, zinc plays a key role in the health of the immune system and is required throughout human life. Found in cells throughout the body, zinc supports normal growth and development. The body does not have a natural mechanism to store zinc, so regular consumption of this mineral is essential at all ages. A healthy diet that includes foods such as oysters, whole grains, dairy products, meat, and fortified cereals can provide adequate amounts of zinc. Animal protein, however, provides the most efficient source, because compounds in plants called phytates tend to bind zinc and limit its bioavailability.
Zinc is also included in most multivitamins, and single-dose supplementation can provide additional support during illness, stress, and pregnancy. This mineral is also included in some cold lozenges and nasal sprays. It helps fight the effects of free radicals and supports the functioning of a healthy immune system, which is why some studies suggest that it could reduce the duration of illnesses such as colds and flu. Taking vitamin E and zinc may help reduce the risk of oxidant-related diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration, an eye disease that reduces vision, and blindness.
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