Is this the wonder vitamin?

"Vitamin E" is the collective name for a group of fat-soluble compounds with distinctive antioxidant activities.  It is found naturally in some foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement.

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that stops the production of ROS (reactive oxygen species) formed when fat undergoes oxidation. Why is this important? Scientists are investigating whether, by limiting free-radical production and possibly through other mechanisms, vitamin E might help prevent or delay the chronic diseases associated with free radicals.

Heart protection:  Vitamin E could prevent or delay coronary heart disease.  Some studies indicate it may prevent the formation of blood clots which can lead to heart attacks.

Cancer prevention:  Antioxidants like Vitamin E protect cells from the damaging effects of free radicals which can lead to cancer. Vitamin E might also block the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines formed in the stomach from nitrites in foods and protect against cancer by enhancing immune function. A study in Iowa of women 65 and older, showed evidence that higher intakes of Vitamin E from food and supplements could decrease the risk of colon cancer.

Eye Health: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts are among the most common causes of significant vision loss in older people.  Scientists speculate that the cumulative effects of oxidative stress could play a role.  If so, nutrients with antioxidant functions, such as vitamin E, could be used to prevent or treat these conditions.  Several observational studies have revealed a potential relationship between vitamin E supplements and the risk of cataract formation. One prospective cohort study found that lens clarity was superior in participants who took vitamin E supplements and those with higher blood levels of the vitamin. http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminE.asp

Cognitive Effects:   Researchers are investigating the effect of free radical damage to neurons in the brain and whether the cumulative effects contribute to cognitive decline and diseases such as Alzheimer's. A clinical trial of 341 patients with Alzheimer's showed a significant delay in functional deterioration and the need for institutionalization for those given Vitamin E and selegiline. (Sano M, Ernesto C, Thomas RG, Klauber MR, Schafer K, Grundman M, et al. A controlled trial of selegiline, alpha-tocopherol, or both as treatment for Alzehimer’s disease. N Engl J Med 1997;336:1216-22. )

• http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminE.asp