Vitamin E Deficiency
What Does It Mean?
Vitamin E Deficiency occurs when the body lacks adequate levels of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant essential for protecting cell membranes from oxidative damage, supporting immune function, and maintaining neurological health. Deficiency can lead to neurological impairments, muscle weakness, and increased oxidative stress.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Poor Dietary Intake – Low consumption of vitamin E-rich foods (nuts, seeds, leafy greens, vegetable oils).
- Malabsorption Disorders – Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and cystic fibrosis impair fat absorption, reducing vitamin E levels.
- Liver Disease – Affects vitamin E storage and metabolism.
- Genetic Disorders – Conditions like abetalipoproteinemia lead to severe vitamin E deficiency.
- High Oxidative Stress – Increased demand for antioxidants in chronic diseases depletes vitamin E stores.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Neurological dysfunction (ataxia, impaired reflexes, balance issues)
- Muscle weakness
- Peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling)
- Vision problems (retinopathy)
- Immune system dysfunction (increased infections)
- Increased oxidative stress leading to cell damage
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test Name | Expected Change | Optimal Range |
| Vitamin E (Tocopherol) | Decreased | 10.0-15.0 mg/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach:
Addressing vitamin E deficiency involves dietary changes, improving fat absorption, and targeted supplementation.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| V-Pax | Supplies key mitochondrial micronutrients and supports cellular function | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Dietary Support: Increase intake of vitamin E-rich foods (almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach, avocado).
- Improve Fat Absorption: Address gut health issues like leaky gut and malabsorption disorders.
- Reduce Oxidative Stress: Support antioxidant pathways with other key nutrients like vitamin C and selenium.
- Monitor Liver Function: Ensure optimal liver health for proper fat-soluble vitamin metabolism.