The On-and-Off-Again for Vitamin E

Poor vitamin E. It started out as a mediator of improved sexual performance in male rats. Then it was thought to prolong longevity in humans. Then beneficial effects on aging changes in brain and blood vessels were proposed (and sold, and refuted). Most recently, the vitamin has been found to have no preventive effects on cancers, and may indeed increase mortality over time.

Now an Italian study reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association describes the relationship between serum concentrations of vitamin E and physical function in 65-year-olds (and older). Almost 700 men and women over 65 had their serum vitamins E, B-12, B-6, and D, folic acid, and iron measured, and their physical function was followed for the next 3 years.

The subjects showed variable declines in physical function, as measured by the Short Physical Performance Battery, which was based on three timed tests: 4-meter walking speed, balance and chair stand tests; muscle strength was measured by hand grip strength. Only a low concentration of vitamin E (less than 1 microgram/mL) was associated with a decline in physical function. The other vitamins, folic acid, and iron were unrelated to this decline. As the authors of the study say, “these results provide evidence that a low serum concentration of vitamin E is associated with subsequent decline in physical function among community living older adults.” You can find out where to get more vitamin E in your diet, here.