Vitamin E Will Help You Keep Strong As You Age
If you want to stay strong as you age, you have to work at it. And you can support your efforts by getting enough vitamin E.
A new study found that blood levels of vitamin E were a strong predictor of how well people performed physically as they got older. In people ages 70-80, low vitamin E increased the odds of physical decline by 60%. (Physical ability was measured with a walking speed test, repeated chair rises and standing balance in progressively more challenging positions—the kinds of things you need to be able to do to live independently.)
This study looked only at vitamin E from foods, not supplements. Researchers say that it is possible to get enough vitamin E to avoid losing physical abilities by eating vitamin E-rich foods like nuts, seeds, whole grains and unrefined vegetable oils. (Bartali, et al JAMA 2008;299(3):308-315.) But in reality, most people don’t get enough vitamin E to provide optimum antioxidant protection unless they take supplements.
Previous research has found that 1,000 IUs a day of supplemental vitamin E can reduce soreness, inflammation and weakness in aging muscles. Long-term use of lower doses (400-800 IU) a day may give exercisers the same benefits, researchers think.
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: Maintaining strength as you age has a major impact on your quality of life. Help your muscles stay strong and recover more quickly from exercise by getting at least 400 IU of vitamin E a day.
QUICK TIP: Jean Carper reveals the lifesaving truth about vitamin E. Learn More
Written exclusively for Stop Aging Now, the authority on anti-aging research, anti-aging nutrition, and anti-aging supplements.
