How to Best Absorb Vitamin E Supplements

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and also an antioxidant. It helps lower cholesterol, boost the immune system and is essential for heart health.

Things You'll Need

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E

Instructions

1. Take the natural form of vitamin E, d-alpha-tocopherol. It is more potent than the synthetic form (dl-alpha-tocopherol).

2. Take vitamin E together with vitamin A. It is necessary for vitamin A absorption.

3. Avoid taking iron and vitamin E together. Inorganic iron can destroy vitamin E. Take the supplements separately.

4. Take your minerals separately from vitamin E. Minerals may block the absorption of vitamin E.

5. Break up your vitamin E dose into smaller doses and take at intervals throughout the day.

6. Avoid high doses of vitamin E if you are taking anticoagulant drugs. It can enhance their effect.

7. Check your other medications. Anticonvulsants such as phenobarbital, phenytoin and carbamazepine may interfere with the absorption and metabolism of vitamin E. You may need to take a larger supplement.

Tips & Warnings

• Vitamin E is found in almonds, hazelnuts, margarine, peanut oil, safflower nuts, sunflower seeds, walnuts, wheat germ and whole-wheat flour.

• Recommended optimal dose is 100 IU to 600 IU for adults.

• Use carefully if you have iron-deficiency anemia. Vitamin E can cause the condition to worsen.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish