Vitamin E exists in eight different forms. Alpha-tocopherol is the most active form in humans. It is a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin E is stored in the liver and excess amounts are excreted in the urine.

Vitamin E protects the body from pollutants, toxins, free radicals and oxidation reactions. Vitamin E maintains the health of cell membranes and helps prevent premature aging and cancers of the lung, breast, colon, and prostate. Vitamin E is protects against other degenerative diseases including Alzheimer's, cataracts, and diabetes. Vitamin E prevents degeneration by enhancing immune function, reducing mutagen formation, and blocking nitrosamine production.

Vitamin E is the most effective fat-soluble antioxidant present in our cells. It plays an important role in limiting atherosclerosis and preventing ischemic heart disease. Vitamin E supplementation decreases platelet and keeps the blood vessels dilated. Vitamin E supplementation, in combination with other antioxidants, is also helpful in preventing sunburn.

Vitamin E supplementation is used primarily to protect against heart disease, stroke, and cancer. It is also used for other cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, infections, autoimmune disorders, premenstrual symptoms, skin disorders, fibrocystic breast disease, menopausal symptoms and sterility.

Vitamin K is found in two natural forms. It is also synthesized in a third form. Vitamin K functions as a coenzyme in the production of a number of proteins involved in blood coagulation and bone metabolism. Vitamin K plays an important role in bone metabolism by activating osteocalcin and by affecting calcium balance. Vitamin K is important to the production of G(l)a protein (MGP). MGP has been found in bone, cartilage, and soft tissue including blood vessels. MGP prevents the calcification of soft tissue and cartilage. It also facilitates normal bone growth and development. Vitamins D and K work synergistically in maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis.

Vitamin K supplementation is used in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, excessive menstrual bleeding and hemorrhagic disease in newborns.

Reference: Tripuraneni, Rama, M.Pharm. and Jamerson, Brenda D., PharmD., R.Ph., Essentials of Vitamin Supplementation and Therapy, America's Pharmacist, February, 2003, pp. 34-42.

Next week: Water Soluble Vitamins

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