Might sound weird, but vitamin E is actually pretty amazing! Vitamin E works as a powerful antioxidant in the body.
Because of this it helps to combat the following:
-inflammation
-excess estrogen
-heart disease
-fertility issues
What I find most fascinating about vitamin E is specifically how it reduces the impact of excess estrogen. Vitamin E acts a lot like progesterone in the body and has several functions that are the opposite of estrogen.
This is why it’s so helpful for those that struggle with intense PMS/painful/heavy periods.
How do you know if you need vitamin E?
One big sign is excess clotting during your period, although anyone that deals with PMS, heavy/painful periods, or estrogen dominant symptoms can benefit.
If you have excess estrogen, this increases your body’s requirement for vitamin E. It’s also depleted by the birth control pill.
One last thing! Vitamin E can be helpful for sunburn and skin issues. You can use it internally and topically.
Before you go run out to buy the closest vitamin E supplement, make sure it is made with MCT oil and includes a combination of d-alpha and mixed tocopherols. That’s going to be the most absorbable form. (We like MitoLife PUFA Protect, AC Grace Company Unique E, and Integrative Therapeutics brands of vitamin E.)
Avoid anything with soybean/canola/sunflower/flaxseed oil. Those will be inflammatory since they are not stable at high temps (they won’t preserve the vitamin E).
Are you curious about other supplements that may be supportive? Listen to this podcast episode all about supportive supplements from the Are you menstrual? podcast.
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