Vitamin E and Cold Prevention

Can vitamin E help prevent the common cold?  The jury is still out on the answer to this question but research is leaning towards a positive response.   

Vitamin E is one of 13 vitamins that is essential to body metabolism, cell growth and function.  It is also known as tocopherol and is an antioxidant important in the formation of red blood cells and the use of vitamin-K-mediated clotting factors.  Vitamin E is also involved in immune function.  Sources of dietary intake include wheat germ, corn, nuts, seeds, olives, spinach, asparagus and other green leafy vegetables, vegetable oils, and products made from vegetable oils, such as margarine.

Results of a study from Tufts University published in the August 18, 2004, issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association suggested that a daily supplement of 200 IU of vitamin E protected a group of older people against the common cold.  In this study, those who were given this daily supplementation were 20% less likely to develop respiratory infections and 22% less likely to develop colds than the participants who got the placebo.  The same researchers also looked at the protection effects in younger people.  They found similar results among young men, although the differences were not as great as those in older adults.  However, immune function decreases as we age and this may explain the greater effects in older adults.

This sounds promising, however, be careful with your intake of vitamin E.  High doses of this vitamin can be detrimental and toxic.  Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin which means it can be stored in fat tissue.  Choose foods that contain natural sources of vitamin E.  If you decide to supplement with vitamin E, be sure to speak with your health practitioner to find the dosage that is sufficient for your lifestyle.  

As we enter cold and flu season, be smart.  Wash your hands often, especially after going to the grocery store and other public venues.  Eat well-balanced and nutritious meals, drink water, and exercise regularly.  Not sure if your meals are "well-balanced"?  Make an appointment with our nutrition specialist here at PROMATx Health Club and get a better picture of your vitamin and mineral intake.

Be healthy...stay healthy!!