If you are looking to support the health of your skin, joints, and hair, you will need collagen. Many people purchase collagen powders or supplements and add them to their teas, coffees, smoothies, and more. Although collagen products are incredibly popular, most people are unaware of what collagen does and how they can preserve it. 

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in animals. A structural protein makes up the structure or framework of both cells and tissues. There are 28 types of collagen, but type 1 collagen accounts for nearly 90% of all collagen in the human body. Collagen is mostly composed of the amino acids proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline. These amino acids form strands that make up the triple-helix structure characteristic of collagen.

The body naturally produces collagen, but collagen production starts to decline some time during your twenties at a rate of about 1% per year. UV exposure, inflammatory diets, lack of sleep, harsh products, and stress can exacerbate this decline. For this reason, many dermatologists encourage a skin care routine that helps preserve collagen. Use vitamin C serum, experiment with retinol if the skin can tolerate it, and wear sunscreen if you go outside. 

Although there are things you can do to help protect collagen, one of the best ways to care for it is through a healthy diet. The food you eat can influence collagen production. Certain foods, especially those with antioxidants, can help protect the skin from free radicals and support the skin barrier. Continue reading to learn about five antioxidants that help keep the skin firm.

Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid phytonutrient and powerful antioxidant that has demonstrated an ability to protect skin cells. Other studies confirm that astaxanthin can help preserve the collagen layer because it has impressive photo protective and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers note that astaxanthin’s free radical fighting powers are five times more powerful than beta-carotene. It’s about 6,000 times more potent than vitamin C! Although vitamin C, which we will get to next, is a powerful antioxidant, it should not be the only one you rely on to encourage collagen production.

Vitamin C

You cannot talk about the skin without having vitamin C in the conversation. Vitamin C is a cofactor in the collagen production process. The skin’s fibroblasts rely on vitamin C to synthesize collagen. According to many studies, fibroblasts cannot effectively make collagen when vitamin C levels are low. Vitamin C works to stabilize the collagen molecule and preserve existing collagen by neutralizing free radicals. For this reason, researchers believe that ingesting vitamin C is the best way to support overall skin health. 

Blood Orange Extract

Blood orange is not in season all year, but it’s very popular during the winter months. What is even more popular, especially in the world of skin care, is blood orange extract. It contains numerous antioxidants, including anthocyanins and flavanones, vitamin C, and hydroxycinnamic acids, which are non-flavonoid phenols. That means that you get all of the benefits of those compounds in one extract. Due to the antioxidant power of blood orange extract, it helps reduce oxidative stress, which causes collagen breakdown. A 100-milligram dose of blood orange extract is effective at reducing proinflammatory levels of cytokine TNF-a in the body. Additionally, one study found that it was able to improve skin elasticity by 5.9% in just 14 days, and 13.9% in 56 days. 

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an oil-soluble antioxidant that helps support vitamin C inside the body. Vitamins C and E have a synergistic relationship, with one study confirming that vitamin E increased vitamin C’s efficacy eightfold. On top of that, vitamin C regenerates vitamin E after vitamin E scavenges for free radicals in the body. Finally, vitamin E can help protect against collagen cross-linking, a process during which collagen becomes hard and stiff. That process can cause the skin to appear hard and stiff, and it contributes to accelerated aging. 

Polyphenols

Polyphenols are plant compounds that are types of antioxidants commonly found in fruits and vegetables. According to research, polyphenols can help boost digestion, improve brain function, and protect against several chronic diseases. Additionally, polyphenols have proven effective at helping the skin manage UV exposure. That is particularly important because UV damage is one of the leading causes of collagen breakdown. Although sunscreen is the most effective way to protect the skin, eating more foods rich in polyphenols will help that process.

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The fall season is all about pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin loaves, and, naturally, pumpkin pies. Did you ever think that you would take some of that nutrient-dense pumpkin and lather it on your face, though? Well, that’s what Dherbs is for! The DIY face mask in this article contains pumpkin, yogurt, and honey, three ingredients that work to nourish your skin and improve its overall glow.

The great thing about this face mask is that you get to drown your skin in an assortment of enzymes, vitamins, and antioxidants. And that’s just referring to the pumpkin! The honey and yogurt also provide moisturizing and soothing effects. Together, these ingredients will leave your skin feeling hydrated, rejuvenated, and radiating with a natural shine. Learn more about the ingredients below.

Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree offers a significant amount of vitamin A, a necessary nutrient for skin health and repair. One serving of pumpkin can nearly fulfill the recommended daily intake of vitamin A. Pumpkin is also a great source of vitamin C, which is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which works to keep skin elastic and firm. By increasing collagen production, you can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and maintain a more youthful complexion. Some studies found that pumpkin polysaccharide extract was effective in skin care applications. Other studies found that the beta-carotene in pumpkin acts like a natural sunblock, working to protect the skin from harmful UV rays. Preventing UV damage can help reduce photoaging, which can impose on the skin’s delicate layers.

Yogurt

There are many types of yogurt, but you should not lather strawberry banana yogurt on your face. That stuff is full of sugar and will not do your skin any favors. Also, keep in mind that if you have a cow’s milk allergy, you may want to avoid yogurt, or opt for a plant-based yogurt instead. Yogurt has a creamy texture, which may help lock moisture into the skin. Some in-vitro studies from 2011 backed up those claims when looking at yogurt face masks. Yogurt may also help even out skin tone, which researchers attribute to the naturally occurring probiotics. Similar to pumpkin, yogurt may also help minimize the effects of UV rays. It’s as though yogurt creates a skin barrier that neutralizes free radicals, helping reduce sun damage-induced wrinkles or spots.

Honey

Raw honey may help to exfoliate the skin, reduce bacteria buildup, and accelerate the healing process of small wounds. Researchers note that raw honey contains beneficial components for the skin, especially if you have acne or an inflammatory skin disorder, such as eczema or psoriasis. Working to balance bacterial buildup on the skin, honey may be significantly more effective than other skin care products. You can use raw honey as a spot treatment or include it in a face mask to help reduce inflammation and redness. Some people report that honey helps to get rid of blemishes! If you can, strive to get Manuka honey, as this is unpasteurized and filled with healing properties. 

Pumpkin Yogurt And Honey Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons organic pumpkin puree
• 1/2 teaspoon raw honey (or Manuka honey)
• 1/4 tablespoon unflavored Greek yogurt

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl and whisk to combine. 
• Apply the mask to your face and neck and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. 
• Rinse away with lukewarm water and pat your face dry. Follow with moisturizer.

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Sometimes, folks, we have to make salads a little heartier and less cleanse-approved. That’s exactly what we’ve done for this roasted chickpea fall salad. Besides the stunning and vibrant colors, this salad offers a variety of textures from the kale, pumpkin seeds, pomegranates, and roasted chickpeas. Top it with creamy avocado and chewy dried cranberries and this salad is next level. It is perfect as a vegan entree or festive fall side dish. It is fully of autumnal flavors that everyone will want more of after the first bite.

The great thing about a hearty salad like this is that they hold up for several hours, making it a great potluck salad. Kale is very sturdy, but make sure to chop it finely to help break down the fibrous texture. Additionally, remove the thick kale stems, or you’ll end up with bitter bites in every forkful of salad. If you prefer arugula or cabbage, then you can use those greens instead. With your base prepped, you can build your salad with the other featured ingredients. You’ll have to roast the chickpeas first, but if you are short on time, you can cook them in the pan. Just make sure to season them liberally, because that way they end up tasting like croutons, only more delicious.

There are a lot of savory flavors in this fall salad, but the pomegranates and dried cranberries offer freshness and tartness. Pomegranates also offer lots of antioxidants, which work to fight free radicals in the body. The subtle tartness of the pomegranate arils go great with the apple cider vinaigrette, which brings a little life and vibrance to the creamy avocado cubes. You also have the freedom add walnuts if you want, but the pumpkin seeds offer healthy fats, texture, and protein.

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Yes, it is that time of the year when we get to welcome all things pumpkin. Although we don’t encourage flocking to coffee shops to indulge in overly sweet and fattening pumpkin spice lattes, we do welcome healthier pumpkin recipes. We prefer the pumpkin recipes, like this overnight oat one, that provide fiber, protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and a diverse mix of vitamins and minerals. And that is truly what we aim to provide you on this website, whether you are cleansing or trying to adopt healthier eating habits.

These pumpkin pie overnight oats contain pure pumpkin puree. Now, it is very important that you purchase that and not canned pumpkin pie mix. The former is 100% pure pumpkin, while the latter is calorically dense, rich in sodium, and high in sugar. Pure pumpkin puree contains fiber, protein, lots and lots of vitamin A, potassium, vitamin C, iron, and a small amount of calcium. Although the pumpkin puree helps flavor and color these overnight oats, let’s not forget about the oats. For vegans, oats are great sources of protein, fiber, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. They help keep you full and sustain energy until your next meal!

And because we love nutrition so much, we could not exclude chia seeds from the recipe. Chia seeds are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. They also contain vitamins B1 & B3, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, calcium, zinc, and several antioxidants, including quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin, caffeic acid, and chlorogenic acid. These antioxidants can help protect your cells from damaging free radicals, which contribute to aging and several diseases, including cancer.

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The mighty avocado is more than an ingredient that restaurants charge extra for. It is a tropical fruit that exhibits an impressive nutrition profile. It is naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats that help to keep the body healthy and strong. That probably isn’t news to you if you aren’t a stranger to guacamole, chocolate avocado pudding, or avocado toast. 

What you may not realize is that avocados benefit the skin, whether you eat them or apply them topically. Because they contain a lot of antioxidants and vitamin E, avocados are great for people with sensitive skin. In this article, we’ll detail a few skin benefits of avocados and why they are common ingredients in skin care products.

Avocado Oil And Avocado Extract In Skin Care

Avocado oil and avocado extract are not the same. Both are derived from the avocado fruit, but the oil is pressed from dried avocado pulp, which contains the fruit’s skin and pit. Avocado extract tends to be derived from the fruit and leaves of the avocado tree. The fruit’s extract is a concentrated liquid that has been the focus of many recent studies for its therapeutic benefits in medical settings. 

Although both avocado oil and avocado extract have their place in skin care products, avocado oil is used more commonly. It is naturally rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, including oleic acid, and vitamins A, C, and E. Due to the oil’s high fat content, it is very useful in skin care products intended for dry or chapped skin. Continue reading to learn more about the skin benefits of avocado oil and extract.

Rich In Antioxidants

According to several studies, the avocado fruit, the oil, and the extract contain a lot of antioxidants, especially polyphenols and carotenoids. These antioxidant compounds work to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which commonly form after exposure to UV rays, pollution, and environmental aggressors. The accumulation of free radicals on the skin can damage the DNA of skin cells, which contributes to premature signs of aging. Neutralizing these free radicals can protect the skin and keep it healthy. 

Avocado oil is commonly used in facial cleansers and eye serums for this reason. When combined with other ingredients, such as olive oil or sweet almond oil, it can help remove dirt, oil, and other impurities without stripping the skin of its natural barrier. Avocado oil also provides long-lasting moisture, which is especially beneficial for people with dry skin. 

A Powerful Moisturizer

As we were just saying, avocado oil is an excellent ingredient that keeps the skin moisturized. The oil contains about 62% lipids, most of which are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Studies confirm that avocado oil can easily penetrate the skin’s moisture barrier more effectively than other plant oils. That makes avocado oil great for people with dry or flaky skin. You may see avocado oil or extract in moisturizers or hydrating masks for this reason. These creams and masks may help minimize water loss, creating more supple, hydrated skin. These tend to be great for all skin types, but always do a patch test on your arm to see if you develop a reaction. 

Offers Soothing Benefits

If you have sensitive skin, inflammation may be a daily occurrence, whether you are aware of it or not. Inflammation is one of the skin’s responses to irritants, including pollution, extreme temperatures, or harsh ingredients. Eczema, for example, is an inflammatory skin condition. Avocado oil may help soothe the appearance of irritated skin. It offers moisturizing properties that may help soften parched or callused skin. Apply a generous amount of avocado oil to dry feet or hands before bed, and then wear socks and gloves. That will prevent the oil from staining sheets while locking in moisture for softer skin in the morning.

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It’s true that summer is almost over, but you still have time to take your taste buds on a vacation to a fruity paradise. Enjoy this refreshing and oh-so-colorful summer fruit salad, which features some of summer’s finest fruits: peaches, kiwis, and mixed berries. This isn’t your average fruit salad; rather, it’s a fruit fiesta that will delight your palate and make your body happy with all the different antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. You know the flavor is there, but let’s talk about the benefits of these wonderful, seasonal fruits.

Berries Galore: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries contain lots of antioxidants, including vitamin C, which work to fight free radicals in the body. Berries are low-sugar fruits, so they may help keep your blood sugar in check. Plus, they may improve aspects of brain and heart health.

Kiwi Craze: These little tart, green gems of goodness burst with vitamin C. It may shock you to learn that kiwis contain more vitamin C than oranges, with one kiwi containing about 100% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C. They also contain other beneficial compounds, including beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, lutein, vitamin K, folate, magnesium, copper, and phosphorus.

Peachy Keen: Get those fresh, seasonal peaches before they’re gone! Peaches are naturally rich in vitamins A and C, both of which encourage healthier skin and immune function. Eat your way to more radiant, beautiful skin while improving digestion with a healthy dose of fiber. Although you can blend them into smoothies or add them to desserts, peaches are best enjoyed fresh!

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Not everyone is a fan of plain old chia pudding. Blending chia seeds and flax seeds together with a liquid and other ingredients creates a smoother texture that is decadent and delicious. As a bonus, you get a bigger nutrient bang for your buck. Plus, chia and flaxseed pudding is low in carbohydrates and works to reduce inflammation and regulate blood sugar levels. It is also 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, and only takes a few minutes to make. 

Separately, chia seeds and flax seeds offer protein, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and other vitamins and minerals. Enjoying them together in one pudding is like assembling all the Power Rangers come together to form the Mega Tigerzord. Thanks to the people who understood that reference. Together, chia seeds and flax seeds can keep you feeling full for hours, making it a great breakfast or pre- or post-workout snack. Continue reading to learn about the benefits of eating this combined pudding. 

Omega-3s

Omega-3s, or omega-3 fatty acids, are essential for controlling inflammatory markers in the body. According to research, Americans tend to be deficient in anti-inflammatory omega-3s. Instead, they have an excess of pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids. Although the body can have a balanced ratio of omegas, the average American consumes 15 times more omega-6s than they do omega-3s. Excess levels of omega-6s in the body can contribute to chronic inflammation, which increases the risk for several degenerative diseases, such as heart disease, arthritis, IBD, and Alzheimer’s disease. Eating chia and flaxseed pudding can help boost your omega-3 intake, which may reduce overall inflammation.

Protein

Both chia seeds and flax seeds are great sources of protein. One tablespoon of chia seeds provides 2.5 grams of protein, while one tablespoon of flax seed provides 1.3 grams of protein. Protein works to stabilize blood sugars by slowing the rate at which carbohydrates are digested and absorbed into the bloodstream. Elevated blood sugar levels promote inflammation, which can cause damage to nerves and blood vessels. High blood sugar can also affect the gut microbiome, reducing levels of beneficial bacteria. That increases the risk of leaky gut, which can lead to systemic inflammation. Finally, protein can aid with appetite control and weight management by regulating hunger hormones.

Antioxidants

Every person can benefit from increasing their antioxidant intake. These nutrients have protective effects on cellular health and help protect against oxidative stress by fighting free radicals. Free radicals are natural byproducts of metabolism, but you can introduce more via habits like smoking, lack of physical activity, stress, elevated blood sugars, and poor diet. Chia seeds and flax seeds are rich in antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation, slow the aging process, and decrease the risk of chronic disease. Flax seeds offer chlorogenic acid, lignans, and p-coumaric acid, all of which exhibit anti-cancer and antioxidant effects. Chia seeds contain quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid, which exhibit the same anti-cancer and antioxidant properties. 

Fiber

Chia seeds and flax seeds contain soluble and insoluble fiber, both of which benefit the digestive system. Insoluble fiber accelerates the rate at which food passes through the digestive tract, so it helps to keep you regular. Soluble fiber works to lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels and helps aid with weight management. Soluble fiber swells up like a gel, similar to chia seeds in liquid, and it traps glucose, cholesterol, and other waste products. It then moves that waste through the digestive tract to eliminate it. Additionally, soluble fiber helps decrease levels of ghrelin, the hunger hormone, and increase levels of satiety. That makes chia and flax pudding a great option for filling you up, enhancing digestion, and managing weight. 

How To Make It

Ingredients:

• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
• 2-4 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/4 cup flax seeds (whole or ground)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup cacao powder
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Stop blending and scrape down the sides as needed to ensure that you thoroughly blend all the ingredients. 
• Divide the blended mixture between two jars or storage containers and refrigerate for at least one hour. 
• Remove from the fridge and top with fresh fruit, nut butter, or desiccated coconut and enjoy.

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The days are here, friends! You know what days we are talking about, the ones where you sit by the pool, throw a football on the beach, go on the lake, or, quite literally, you soak up the summer sun. There is nothing quite like a lazy summer day in the sun, but you’ll suffer the consequences if you don’t properly care for your skin. 

In your younger years, you probably weren’t as vigilant about sun protection. Once you pass a certain threshold, you understand the importance of skin care, especially if you are going to be in the sun. You also understand that you have to properly care for the skin after sun exposure. You won’t always return home from a day in the sun with a sunburn. You can, however, decrease your risk of sunburn by taking precautions, such as applying sunscreen and finding shade when possible. When you feel like your skin is a little hotter than usual after sun exposure, apply the after sun lotion in this article. 

Green Tea

This after sun lotion contains green tea, which may seem like an unusual ingredient for such a DIY skin care product. Green tea works to reduce inflammation and provides lots of antioxidants and polyphenols that fight sun damage and free radicals. Even if you do not get burnt, these antioxidants can help fight the free radicals that develop from sun exposure. Green tea also works to fight the signs of aging and promotes rejuvenation, which is necessary after sun exposure. 

Aloe Vera Gel

When you think of after sun care, your mind probably goes straight to aloe vera gel. It soothes the skin and helps accelerate recovery from a sunburn. If you put it in the fridge and then apply it to your warm, sunburnt skin, it is a revelation. Most people have used the sap from the aloe plant to soothe skin for centuries. It has an instant cooling effect and works to fight inflammation. Studies have shown that aloe vera also increases cell turnover and promotes new cell growth. Mostly composed of water, aloe vera works to moisturize and nourish the body, enhancing the skin barrier and preventing moisture loss after application.

Essential Oils

Similar to aloe vera, some essential oils, such as peppermint essential oil, provide an instant cooling effect when topically applied to the skin. Peppermint essential oil helps to draw heat out of the body, which is necessary if you have a sunburn. Finally, the lavender essential oil in this after sun lotion has a soothing scent that helps to calm the mind and body. It also works to clean the skin’s surface, reduce inflammation, and lessen pain. 

After Sun Lotion

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
• 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
• 1/3 cup pure aloe vera gel
• 25 drops vitamin E oil
• 25 drops peppermint essential oil
• 20 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Add the coconut oil and beeswax pellets to a small saucepan over medium low heat. Stir frequently until fully melted and clear.
• Add the matcha powder and stir to combine. Allow the matcha to steep in the oil and beeswax mixture for one hour over very low heat. 
• Pour the matcha-infused oil mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve into a heat-safe bowl. 
• Add the remaining ingredients to the same bowl and whisk all of the ingredients together by hand or with an electric mixer. 
• Once you have thoroughly whisked the ingredients, pour the mixture into a glass jar and allow it to cool at room temperature. This will take some time. 
• When the mixture is cool, you can use it immediately. If you want to go the extra mile to have a fluffy consistency, you can pour the mixture back into a bowl and whisk with an electric mixture. 
• Store the after sun lotion in a glass jar in the fridge to keep it as fresh as possible. This will also enhance the cooling effects of some of the ingredients in the after sun lotion.

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When you find something that you like, especially a smoothie, it can be hard not to stick to it. That’s how we feel about green smoothies, anyway. Most people struggle to find a green smoothie that they actually enjoy. A green smoothie that is too bitter or tastes like fresh cut grass doesn’t entice your taste buds to return to that flavor. Mix the right fruits with the right greens, though, and you’ll set yourself up for success.

The great thing about this detox smoothie is that it contains many beneficial ingredients that support the body in myriad ways. So as not to bore you, we are going to focus on two standout ingredients that aid the body’s natural detoxification processes: grapefruit and pineapple. Both of these ingredients aid the body in the following ways:

Grapefruit: This citrus fruit exhibits antiseptic properties and acts as a digestive tonic. Many studies have found grapefruit to be highly beneficial for the lymphatic system, as it boosts lymph gland activity. That can help remove lymphatic waste and prevent circulatory issues, allergies, fluid retention, breakouts, and even cellulite.

Pineapple: Pineapple is a great ingredient for your detox smoothie, particularly because it aids digestion and is full of nutrients. One cup of pineapple contains almost 75% of your recommended daily intake of manganese. Pineapples are naturally rich in carotenes, flavonoids, and polyphenols, all of which work to neutralize free radicals and aid the removal of toxins from the liver and bloodstream.

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What does vitamin E do and are there vegan sources of this fat-soluble vitamin? Yes and yes. Vitamin E comes in several forms, but alpha-tocopherol is the only one used by the human body. The primary role of vitamin E is to act as an antioxidant, fighting free radicals that can damage cells. It also works to optimize immune function and prevent clots from forming in heart arteries.

What Is Vitamin E? 

Antioxidant vitamins, such as vitamin E, became known to the public in the 1980s, when scientists started to understand that free radical damage was a part of the early stages of atherosclerosis. Free radical damage may also contribute to cancer, vision loss, and many other chronic health conditions. Vitamin E works to protect cells from these damaging free radicals, while simultaneously reducing the body’s production of free radicals in certain situations. There is conflicting evidence, however, on whether or not high doses of vitamin E can actually prevent chronic diseases.

Recommended Amounts

According to research, the recommended daily intake (RDI) for vitamin E for males and females  ages 14 years and older is 15 milligrams (mg) per day. If monitoring vitamin E intake in international units (iu), consume 22 iu per day, and that goes for pregnant women as well. Lactating women need a little more at 19 mg, or 28 iu per day. The following recommendations for vitamin E intake are for people under the age of 14: 

• 0-6 months: 4 mg per day
• 7-12 months: 5 mg per day
• 1-3 years: 6 mg per day
• 4-8 years: 7 mg per day
• 9-13 years: 11 mg per day

Vegan Sources Of Vitamin E

Vitamin E exists in a lot of plant-based foods, including oils, nuts and seeds (including nut and seed butters), fruits, and vegetables. The following foods are considered the top 10 vegan sources of vitamin E. We will list their serving sizes with the amount of vitamin E in mg for your knowledge.

• Almonds: 7.4 mg of vitamin E per 1/4 cup
• Sunflower seeds: 6.9 mg of vitamin E per 1/4 cup
• Spinach: 4.6 mg of vitamin E per one cup of cooked spinach
• Hazelnuts: 4.3 mg of vitamin E per 1/4 cup
• Swiss chard: 4 mg of vitamin E per one cup of cooked chard
• Turnip greens: 3.7 mg of vitamin E per one cup of cooked greens
• Mustard greens: 3.3 mg of vitamin E per one cup of cooked greens
• Kiwi: 2.5 mg of vitamin E per 1 medium fruit
• Broccoli: 2.2 mg of vitamin E per one cup of cooked broccoli
• Mango: 2 mg of vitamin E per one medium fruit

Signs of Vitamin E Deficiency 

Vitamin E is found in many vegan and non-vegan foods, in addition to various supplements. That makes the vitamin E deficiency rate in the United States very low, even rare. That said, people with digestive disorders, or those who cannot properly absorb fat, can develop a vitamin E deficiency. If you cannot absorb fat, you may have cystic fibrosis, pancreatitis, celiac disease, or other similar disease. The common signs of a vitamin E deficiency include:

• Peripheral neuropathy (damage to the peripheral nerves, usually in the hands or feet, which can cause weakness or pain)
• Decreased immune function
• Retinopathy (damage to the retina, which can impair vision)
• Ataxia (loss of control of body movements)

Conclusion

Vitamin E is an integral nutrient for preventing oxidative damage and maintaining overall health. Because there are many food sources and supplements, you should not have a problem eating the RDI of vitamin E per day, no matter what diet you follow. Fresh is always best, so include a variety of nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and other fruits and vegetables in your diet to meet your vitamin E needs.

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