Ask the Nutritionist

Good morning... I used to take 400mg. daily of Vitamin E. Since I had read about some studies saying that too much can cause heart attacks an heart problems, I had stopped taking it for a while. My mom's doctor even told her to stop taking it all together. I stopped for a while, but I recently started taking one 200 mg. capsule every other day. I haven't been to my doctor to ask him what he feels. I am 52 years old and in good health .

What have you read on this and what is your opinion and suggestion as far as taking it?

Thanks so much for your expertise... Inana :-)

From what I have read of the studies and recommendations by experts is that taking 200 IU every day is safe.  The reasons for taking it are not solidly proven (the potential to help prevent macular degeneration, prostate cancer, and Alzheimers disease for example) but some experts say in light of the safety at the 200 IU daily level "why not?"   According to John Swartzberg, M.S., Chair of the Editorial Board of the Univ. of CA @ Berkely Wellness Newsletter:  "There's no solid evidence of harm (at the 200 - 400 level) and some benefits may yet pan out.  Other important studies on E are still underway.  Meanwhile, eat foods rich in E- nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, whole grains, and leafy greens."

Hope that helps in your decision making.