Vitamin E

Vitamin E (tocopherol) test – is a blood test to determine the level of this fat-soluble antioxidant in the body. Vitamin E is important for protecting cell membranes from free radicals, acts as a protective measure against oxidative stress, and is involved in the function of the immune, circulatory, and reproductive systems.

The effect of Vitamin E manifests in suppressing the impact of harmful substances formed in the environment or the body, thus it is considered one of the natural protective factors against chronic diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases. It also reduces blood clotting, inhibits the risk of thrombus formation, and improves circulation.

Vitamin E accumulates in adipose tissue, so its excess can also have undesirable effects. Large doses over time may cause bleeding risk, fatigue, digestive disorders, skin problems, and reduced immunity. Long-term use in large doses can even increase the risk of cancer.

Deficiency is most often associated with fat absorption disorders, jaundice, pancreatic or gallbladder diseases, and may also occur in premature infants or people undergoing prolonged fasting. Deficiency symptoms: nervous system and digestive disorders, allergies, male infertility, risk of miscarriage in women.

Test principle: The amount of Vitamin E is determined from venous blood serum, usually by chromatographic method. Results are presented in µmol/l or mg/l units.

Recommendations:

• Recommended in cases of prolonged fatigue, nervous system, skin, fertility, or immune system disorders.
• Useful for patients with liver, pancreatic, or gallbladder diseases that may impair fat absorption.
• Assigned to newborns or premature infants, as well as people who consume little fat or follow long-term diets.
• Conducted for assessing antioxidant protection or suspecting Vitamin E overdose.
• It is recommended to come for the test fasting for at least 8 hours, avoid supplements with vitamin E 1–2 days before the test.