Vitamin E
A group of fat-soluble vitamins that stabilize cell membranes by protecting them from the damaging effects of oxygen free radicals, which are produced by various disease processes and toxic substances, i.e. they have antioxidant effects.
The most important member of the vitamin E group is alpha-tocopherol, which is found in vegetable oils, eggs, butter, and wholemeal cereals. There is evidence to suggest that it may reduce the risk of a heart attack in susceptible individuals. It is available, as alpha tocopheryl acetate, in the form of a suspension or tablets that can be obtained without a prescription, but only from pharmacies.
Side effects: there may be diarrhoea and abdominal pain with higher dosages.
Proprietary preparations: Ephynal; FORCEVAL (combined with other vitamins); KETOVITE (combined with other vitamins).