Vitamin E
Fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage during intense training.
Why it matters
Vitamin E is a group of fat-soluble compounds the most biologically active being alpha-tocopherol. Its primary role is as a lipid-soluble antioxidant, protecting cell membranes from oxidative damage by neutralising free radicals. It works synergistically with vitamin C (which regenerates vitamin E after it donates electrons) and selenium.
For endurance athletes
Endurance training generates high levels of reactive oxygen species that attack cell membranes. Vitamin E is the frontline defence at the membrane level. Chronically low vitamin E can impair recovery, increase muscle damage from training, and reduce immune function. Athletes on low-fat diets may be at particular risk as vitamin E is found predominantly in fat-containing foods.
Signs of deficiency
- ·Muscle weakness
- ·Impaired coordination and balance (severe)
- ·Immune dysfunction
- ·Vision problems (severe)
Best food sources
- ·Nuts and seeds (almonds, sunflower seeds)
- ·Vegetable oils (sunflower, safflower)
- ·Avocados
- ·Dark leafy greens
- ·Whole grains
Track Vitamin E automatically
MOVE logs micronutrients from every food you eat and shows sport-specific context alongside your numbers.