What causes vitamin E deficiency?
Introduction
Vitamin E is a vital nutrient required for various essential health functions in the body. As an antioxidant, it plays an important role in protecting the cells from damage caused by free radicals and harmful environmental toxins. Also, it is necessary for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and immune system. Although vitamin E is commonly found in many foods, some factors can cause its deficiency, which can lead to several health problems. This article will explore the possible causes of vitamin E deficiency.
Insufficient intake of vitamin E
One of the leading causes of vitamin E deficiency is inadequate intake of foods rich in this nutrient. While vitamin E is found in various foods such as nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and leafy greens, many people may not consume enough of these foods. For instance, some individuals may follow a diet that excludes vitamin E-rich foods or have specific conditions that hinder their ability to consume these foods. Over time, this can lead to a deficiency of the nutrient in their body.
Digestive disorders
Another cause of vitamin E deficiency is digestive disorders, which affect the body''s ability to absorb fats, a necessary step in the absorption of vitamin E. These disorders may include liver disease, celiac disease, Crohn''s disease, and pancreatic insufficiency. In such cases, the body cannot absorb the fat-soluble vitamin E, leading to deficiency and subsequent health issues.
Genetic disorders
Certain genetic disorders can also cause vitamin E deficiency. These disorders include abetalipoproteinemia and ataxia with vitamin E deficiency (AVED). People with abetalipoproteinemia lack a specific protein that helps transport fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the body. This results in malabsorption of vitamin E and other fat-soluble vitamins, leading to their deficiency. AVED, on the other hand, is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the TTPA gene. This gene encodes the protein responsible for transporting vitamin E in the body. Individuals with AVED have a reduced ability to absorb vitamin E, leading to its deficiency.
Premature infants
Premature infants are at high risk of developing vitamin E deficiency. This is because they may not have accumulated sufficient levels of vitamin E while in the mother''s womb and may also lack the necessary digestive enzymes to absorb the nutrient. Premature infants may experience difficulties in breathing, feeding, and absorbing nutrients due to their underdeveloped organs. As a result, they may rely on parenteral nutrition, which, unfortunately, may not provide sufficient levels of vitamin E.
High alcohol intake
High alcohol intake can also cause a deficiency of vitamin E. Alcohol inhibits the liver''s ability to store and release vitamin E into the bloodstream. It also damages the digestive system, which impairs the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin E. Additionally, individuals who consume high levels of alcohol may not consume enough vitamin E-rich foods, leading to further deficiency of the nutrient in their body.
Conclusion
In conclusion, vitamin E plays a crucial role in different body functions and its deficiency can lead to various health problems. While an inadequate intake of vitamin E is one of the primary causes of deficiency, other factors such as digestive disorders, genetic disorders, and premature birth can also cause this deficiency. Additionally, high alcohol intake can lead to the deficiency of this vital nutrient. To avoid vitamin E deficiency, it''s essential to consume a balanced diet that includes foods rich in this nutrient. In cases where one cannot consume sufficient vitamin E through the diet, supplements may help address the deficiency. Consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended before starting any supplement regimen.
