Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in maintaining several bodily functions.

It is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant, protecting our cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to several chronic diseases. Vitamin E also helps boost our immune system, supports healthy skin, and helps in the formation of red blood cells.

Although vitamin E deficiency is rare, it can happen, especially in people with certain health conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis, and liver disease. A lack of vitamin E can lead to several health problems.

Here are ten warning signs that you’re not getting enough vitamin E:.

1. Dry skin and hair

Vitamin E helps keep our skin and hair healthy by preserving the oils in our cells that keep our skin and hair moisturized.

A deficiency of vitamin E can cause dryness and flakiness of the skin and hair, making them look dull, lifeless, and prone to breakage.

2. Vision problems

Vitamin E is also crucial for maintaining good eye health. A deficiency of vitamin E can lead to various vision problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and even blindness.

3. Numbness and tingling sensation in the hands and feet

Vitamin E helps in the formation of red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen to different parts of the body.

A lack of oxygen due to a deficiency in vitamin E can lead to nerve damage, causing numbness and tingling in the hands and feet.

4. Muscle weakness

Vitamin E also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy muscle function. A deficiency in vitamin E can affect the production of red blood cells that carry oxygen to the muscles, leading to muscle weakness.

5. Cognitive difficulties

Vitamin E is important for maintaining cognitive function, especially in older adults. A lack of vitamin E can lead to cognitive difficulties, including memory loss, poor concentration, and confusion.

6. Slow wound healing

Vitamin E helps in the formation of new blood vessels and connective tissues, which are essential for wound healing. A deficiency in vitamin E can lead to slow wound healing and increased risk of infection.

7. Increased risk of infections

As mentioned earlier, vitamin E plays a vital role in boosting our immune system, which helps us fight against infections and diseases. A lack of vitamin E can weaken our immune system, leading to an increased risk of infections.

8. Muscle cramps

Vitamin E is also important for maintaining electrolyte balance in the body. A deficiency in vitamin E can lead to an imbalance of electrolytes, causing muscle cramps.

9. Fatigue and weakness

A lack of vitamin E can cause chronic fatigue syndrome, leading to weakness, lethargy, and reduced energy levels.

10. Increased risk of heart disease

Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting our cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to several chronic diseases, including heart disease.

A deficiency in vitamin E can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.

If you experience any of these warning signs, you should talk to your healthcare provider to determine if you are deficient in vitamin E.

You can boost your vitamin E intake by including vitamin-E-rich foods in your diet, such as nuts, seeds, spinach, broccoli, and avocados, or by taking vitamin E supplements under the guidance of your healthcare provider.