Question

Could you please explain what exactly Vitamin E is? For example, is there a form that can be taken sublingually or eaten directly? Thank you!

Answer

Vitamin E is commonly available in the form of capsules, which are taken orally. Also known as tocopherol due to its association with fertility, it belongs to the class of phenolic compounds. There are several forms of natural Vitamin E, with the differences in their structures lying in the side chains R1, R2, and R3. Vitamin E is related to the reproductive function of animals; when animals lack Vitamin E, their reproductive organs are damaged and they become sterile. Vitamin E is highly prone to oxidation and can protect other substances from being oxidized, making it the most effective antioxidant in animals and humans. It can counteract the lipid peroxidation reactions in biological membranes, protect the integrity of biological membrane structure and function, and delay aging. Vitamin E mainly exists in vegetable oils, with abundant amounts found in wheat germ oil, sunflower oil, peanut oil, and corn oil; it is also present in high quantities in vegetables, beans, and grains. It is generally not easily deficient. In terms of properties and stability, Vitamin E is a slightly yellow to yellow transparent viscous liquid; it has almost no odor, darkens in color when exposed to light, is sensitive to oxygen, and is easily oxidized. Therefore, it can protect other substances that can be oxidized within the body (such as unsaturated fatty acids, Vitamin A) from oxidation. When exposed to air or ultraviolet radiation, it slowly oxidizes and degrades. (Body process) After being taken internally, tocopherol can be absorbed through the intestines (the presence of bile is required). For instance, if 2 grams are taken orally at once, the absorption rate is 55%. After absorption, it reaches the blood through the lymph in the form of chylomicrons and then combines with blood plasma β-lipoprotein. The amount of combination can reach the blood…