9 vitamin E supplements to consider: Benefits and more

Vitamin E is the collective name for a set of fat-soluble vitamins. Within the human body, vitamin E acts as an antioxidant. It can help:

• protect cells from free radicals
• boost the immune system
• widen blood vessels
• prevent blood clots
• promote cell function

Foods in which vitamin E naturally occurs, include:

• vegetable and plant oils
• nuts
• seeds
• green vegetables, such as broccoli and spinach
• fruits, such as mango and kiwi

Manufacturers sometimes add vitamin E to:

• breakfast cereals
• fruit juices
• margarine
• spreads

Manufacturing companies usually display the above additions on food labels.

Learn more about vitamin E here.

It is important for a person to contact a doctor if they think they may have a vitamin E deficiency. A doctor can carry out a blood test to help identify this.

Symptoms of vitamin E deficiency may include:

• muscle weakness
• coordination problems
• numbness and tingling
• vision problems
• immune system weakness

Find out more about vitamin E deficiency here.

A person can take vitamin E orally or they can apply it to their skin. Both may have benefits.

Vitamin E oil

A person applies vitamin E oil directly to the skin to:

• moisturize
• heal
• ease itching from conditions such as eczema
• reduce the appearance of scars and wrinkles
• prevent sunburn

Supplement

A vitamin E supplement, usually taken orally, can benefit cells and the immune system.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommend that adults aim to get 15 milligrams (mg) of vitamin E per day.

There is currently no evidence of individuals experiencing adverse effects from high vitamin E intake from foods. However, the NIH continues that for people 19 years and older, the daily upper intake level of vitamin E from supplements is 1,000 mg. This means it is important for a person not to exceed this amount from supplements.

Symptoms

Symptoms from too much vitamin E may include:

• excessive bleeding
• fatigue
• gastrointestinal conditions

Before choosing a vitamin E supplement, a person may wish to consider the following:

• Form: Supplements are available in a capsule, softgel, chewable, or liquid form, so a person can choose the option that best suits their needs.
• Third-party testing: As the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements, a person may want to consider checking that the product is third-party tested to ensure safety.
• USP verification: The United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP) offers verified status to products that pass its strict manufacturing guidelines, including the following:
  • The product must contain the ingredients in its label details.
  • The product must contain the declared potency and amounts.
  • The product must not contain harmful levels of specified contaminants.
  • The supplement will absorb into a person’s body within a specified timeframe.
  • The manufacturer must use safe, sanitary, and well-controlled practices in accordance with FDA and USP guidelines.
• Dosage label: It is important that a person take care not to exceed the recommended daily vitamin E allowance, so for clarity, they may want to consider paying close attention to the product label.

Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:

• Ingredients: MNT chooses products containing safe and high quality ingredients that are clearly labeled. They should also confirm they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
• Dosage: MNT chooses products that must clearly state the supplement dosage.
• Serving size: MNT selects products in which manufacturers recommend a safe dosage.
• Third-party testing: MNT chooses products that must undergo third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
• Available certificate of analysis: MNT chooses companies that demonstrate transparency and share a product’s certificate of analysis (COA) following receipt of its third-party lab results.

Below, we look at some of the best vitamin E supplements for a person to consider.

Best capsule: Ancient Nutrition

This product may suit individuals following a paleo or keto diet. The capsules contain no gluten, dairy, or nuts.

The formulation process follows the traditional Chinese medicine method of super nutrition, and the company recommends that a person take 2 capsules per day.

This capsule also includes 200 micrograms (mcg) of selenium.

Best softgels: Nature Made

Nature Made recommends a person take 1 softgel daily.

In addition to vitamin E, ingredients include gelatin, water, and glycerin. The product is also free from added colors, preservatives, artificial flavors, and gluten.

Best vegan-friendly: Naturelo

The company claims these plant-based capsules come from natural whole foods that they prepare in a Good Manufacturing Practices facility.

Best chewable: Natures Plus

These chewable tablets are carob flavor and contain other natural flavorings.

Best vitamin E complex: Nordic Naturals

This product contains a vitamin E complex, meaning it contains all six forms of vitamin E.

The company states that the product is sustainably sourced.

Best liquid: Solgar

This product is a liquid form of vitamin E and contains a dropper that measures 1 serving size.

The company recommends taking 1 serving, twice daily.

Solgar products come in recyclable bottles.

Best cost-effective supplement: Kirkland Signature

The company recommends a person take 1 softgel daily, ideally with their most substantial meal.

It claims this product is USP-verified and free of artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, yeast, starch, and gluten.

Best containing additional vitamins: Garden of Life

In addition to vitamin E, these capsules also contain:

• vitamin A
• vitamin D
• vitamin K
• selenium
• a probiotic and digestive enzyme blend

They contain a blend of raw fruits and vegetables and may suit those following a vegan diet.

Best powder: Bulk Supplements

A person can dissolve this powder in water once daily to create a drinkable supplement. The 575-mg serving is the approximate equivalent of 1/4 teaspoon.

The company claims it adheres to Current Good Manufacturing Process standards.

Despite also claiming to be third-party tested, it does not currently show a COA for this product. Although, a person can contact the company to request this information.

The below table compares the supplements in this article.

Below are some common questions about vitamin E supplements.

What is vitamin E good for?

Vitamin E is beneficial for the:

• skin
• eyes
• immune system
• cell function

What is the best form of vitamin E?

The most active and best form of vitamin E for humans is d-alpha-tocopherol.

Should I take vitamin E supplements every day?

Vitamin E supplements will only suit those with a known deficiency. If an individual is unsure whether this applies to them, they can contact a doctor or qualified healthcare professional.

Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant within the human body and has a variety of health benefits. It is present in many common foods.

However, those who are vitamin E deficient may benefit from taking supplements. There are many available in different forms, including:

• softgels
• liquids
• capsules
• chewable tablets

It is important for people to consult a doctor or medical professional before taking vitamin E supplements.