Spotlight on
This hydrating hero stars in many a #skincareshelfie. With bags of benefits from immunity support to eye health, it’s a must
01. Where to start with vitamin E...
It’s a better multitasker than a chief bridesmaid on a hen weekend. ‘A powerful antioxidant, vitamin E works to prevent inflammation, protect cell membranes and proteins, and fight free radicals and oxidation in the body,’ says dietitian Rachel Clarkson (thednadietitian.co.uk), adding that it plays a vital role in skin health, eye health and vision, in addition to your immune system.
02. Free what now?
Free radicals: these are actually less of a laugh than they sound. They’re unstable atoms seeking other atoms to bond with in order to stabilise themselves. ‘Free radicals not only damage your skin, but also your bodily tissue,’ says Clarkson. Because of vitamin E’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it works to fight off any damage that free radicals might cause – and it even works to prevent this inflammation from occurring in the first place.
03. You mentioned the immune system?
Someone was paying attention. To function optimally and guard against illness, the immune system needs all of its cells, tissues and organs to be in peak condition. This is where vitamin E comes in. As a valiant act of self-sacrifice, it binds with active free radicals to stop them wreaking havoc with cells that help you stay healthy. Vitamin E also supports the growth of T cells, which are active in producing effective immune responses to infection and other threats.
04. And my skin won’t be sorry?
Hell, no! The free radicals and pollutants that are present in your environment (think UV radiation, alcoho
