How does vitamin E work?
Vitamin E is an antioxidant, meaning it neutralizes the effects of cell-damaging molecules called free radicals that may play a role in plaque formation. However, the study found no association between other antioxidant vitamins such as A, C and beta-carotene and arterial plaque. What did the study find? Low intakes and low blood concentrations of vitamin E are associated with early hardening of the carotid arteries. The evidence of detectable arterial damage in the subjects in the lowest level of vitamin E intake and blood concentrations indicates that only individuals with an inadequate intake or a low plasma concentration of vitamin E are expected to benefit from an increase of vitamin E intake, either through dietary changes or supplementation.
