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Vitamin E - VitE

What does the Vitamin E - VitE blood test mean? Get a free analysis of your blood test now. Here's what you get with our free analysis:

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Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that plays a crucial role in protecting cells from oxidative stress. It supports immune function, helps maintain healthy skin and eyes, and may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. This test measures the level of alpha-tocopherol, the most active form of vitamin E, in the blood. It's used to assess nutritional status, diagnose vitamin E deficiency, and monitor supplementation. Adequate vitamin E levels are essential for neurological function, blood cell formation, and preventing lipid peroxidation. Low levels may indicate malabsorption disorders, while high levels are usually due to excessive supplementation.

Acceptable Range:   5 to 20
Ideal for Women:   5.5-17
Ideal for Men:   5.5-17
Ideal for Girls:   3-9
Ideal for Boys:   3-9
Test Method: blood

What do readings below 5 mg/L for Vitamin E - VitE mean?

A low vitamin E level may indicate:

  1. Malnutrition or poor dietary intake
  2. Malabsorption disorders (e.g., celiac disease, cystic fibrosis)
  3. Genetic disorders affecting vitamin E absorption or transport
  4. Liver or pancreatic diseases
  5. Increased oxidative stress

Low levels can lead to neurological problems, muscle weakness, and increased susceptibility to infections. In severe cases, it may cause vision problems and impaired immune function. Treatment typically involves dietary changes and supplementation.

What do readings above 20 mg/L for Vitamin E - VitE mean?

Elevated vitamin E levels are usually due to excessive supplementation rather than dietary intake. While vitamin E toxicity is rare, high levels may:

  1. Increase the risk of bleeding by interfering with vitamin K function
  2. Cause nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps
  3. Interfere with the absorption of other fat-soluble vitamins
  4. Potentially increase the risk of prostate cancer in men
  5. Interact with certain medications, especially blood thinners

High levels are typically addressed by reducing or stopping vitamin E supplements. In rare cases, it may indicate a genetic disorder affecting vitamin E metabolism. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking high-dose supplements.

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