Health Tip: Get Enough Vitamin E

(HealthDayNews) -- Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that actually comes in eight different forms, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

Alpha-tocopherol, the most active form of vitamin E in people, is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants protect your cells against the effects of free radicals, which are potentially damaging byproducts of the body's metabolism. Free radicals can cause cell damage that may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Unprocessed vegetable oils, as well as nuts, green leafy vegetables and fortified cereals, are major dietary sources of vitamin E.

-- Anne Thompson