Vitamin E protects against heart attacks and cancer

Vitamin E, also known as tocopherol protects against heart attacks and cancer through its potent antioxidant action. Through its antioxidant action it acts as a free radical scavenger in the human body. Free radicals are produced as a result of various oxidation reduction reactions and modify the DNA and proteins in various cells of the human body. Free radical induced damage to DNA results in a number of diseases like cancer, autoimmune diseases, SLE etc. It also protects against heart attack by the same mechanism by preventing oxidation of LDL by free radicals.Some physicians prescribe a weekly tablet of Vitamin E to their above 45 yrs of age patients.