Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin that is an antioxidant, which is a substance that protects against harmful by-products of oxygen metabolism that can cause damage to tissue cells and accelerate the aging process. Vitamin E is also needed for:
- Production of red blood cells
- Protection against infection in the lining of the lungs
- Intestinal health
How Much Vitamin E Do I Need?
Since vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin, people with healthy digestive systems store some of it in their bodies. The USDA recommends that most people should consume between 6 to 22 International Units (IU) of vitamin E each day, which in addition to the amount stored in their bodies, will meet their daily requirements. Since people with cystic fibrosis do not digest or store fats well, they need to consume more. Each person’s needs will vary, but the general guidelines for people with cystic fibrosis are:
0 to 1 years: 40 to 50 IU
1 to 3 years: 80 to 150 IU
4 to 8 years: 100 to 200 IU
Older than 8 years: 200 to 400 IU
What are the Best Sources of Vitamin E?
There are eight different types of vitamin E, but the one that is most useful to humans is alpha-tocopherol (a-tocopherol).
Food sources of vitamin E include:- Vegetable oils (especially wheat germ oil)
- Nuts
- Olives
- Corn
- Leafy green vegetables
- Fortified cereals
While it is important to eat foods rich in vitamin E, it is difficult for people with cystic fibrosis to get sufficient amounts from diet alone. Your doctor will probably also prescribe a supplement containing vitamin E to help you meet your daily requirements. If you take pancreatic enzymes, be sure to take them with your vitamin supplements and food to get the most benefit.
Sources:
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. 2005. “Vitamin E”. 28 September 2008.
National Institute of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. 2008.. 28 September 2008.
