VITAMIN E and GOOD HEALTH Vitamin E is an essential antioxidant nutrient that is receiving considerable public attention. Interest in the nutrient is high, because new scientific data suggest that optimal intake of vitamin E can aid in the neutralization of free radicals. Free radicals originate in body processes and also result from environmental exposures. They are held in check by antioxidants. It is important to maintain a healthy balance of antioxidants and free radicals. When free radicals abound because of diet, lifestyle, environment or other negative influences, antioxidant protection is overwhelmed and free radical damage may occur. Antioxidant nutrients play a significant role in the body's defense against excess levels of free radicals. These nutrients include vitamins C , E, beta carotene and several minerals including selenium. These antioxidants all work together. How Does Vitamin E Function as an Antioxidant Vitamin E, which is fat soluble, is present in lipids, most significantly in the lipids of cell membranes and in circulating low density lipoproteins. As free radicals are produced as byproducts of metabolic processes or originate from environmental pollutants, available vitamin E neutralizes them. If unchecked by an antioxidant, the free radicals attack cell constituents which can result in: · Cell death or alteration of the cell's response · Inactivation of enzymes or other proteins What Role Might Vitamin E Play in Good Health Protection against damage to cells of course is important. Vitamin E is also important in supporting immune response and may play a role in allergic response. Several clinical studies have also indicated vitamin E may be important in supporting heart health. Symptoms of Vitamin E deficiency in humans can include nerve damage, muscle weakness, poor coordination, breaking of red blood cells and involuntary eye movement. Kirkman's Super Nu-Thera products contain vitamin E. Certain of the specialty versions of these products such as the liquid or the hypoallergenic have reduced vitamin E levels made necessary by the formulation requirements. Some additional supplementation may be indicated in individuals using these products and not getting the balance of their vitamin E requirements from the diet. KIRKMAN'S VITAMIN E HYPOALLERGENIC CAPSULES Kirkman's Hypoallergenic Vitamin E Capsules are manufactured from synthetically manufactured dl-alpha tocopheryl acetate. There are no animal derived ingredients present and the vitamin E is soy free.