Deficiency Disease Caused By Lack Of Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that is required for our body to function properly. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant and helps protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E is found naturally in many foods, including nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. However, not getting enough vitamin E can lead to various deficiency diseases. In this article, we will discuss some of the deficiency diseases caused by a lack of vitamin E.
1. Ataxia
Ataxia is a neurological disorder that affects our ability to coordinate movement. It is caused by damage to the part of our brain that controls movement, and vitamin E deficiency can contribute to the development of ataxia. The symptoms of ataxia include poor coordination, slurred speech, and difficulty swallowing.
2. Anemia
Anemia is a blood disorder that occurs when our body does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to our tissues. Vitamin E deficiency can lead to anemia by causing damage to our red blood cells, making them more susceptible to destruction. The symptoms of anemia include fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
3. Retinopathy
Retinopathy is a condition that affects the retina of our eyes, causing damage to our vision. Vitamin E deficiency can contribute to the development of retinopathy by causing oxidative stress and damage to our retinal cells. The symptoms of retinopathy include blurry vision, floaters, and loss of vision.
4. Neuromuscular Disorders
Neuromuscular disorders are a group of conditions that affect our nerves and muscles, causing weakness and wasting. Vitamin E deficiency can contribute to the development of neuromuscular disorders by causing oxidative stress and damage to our nerves and muscles. The symptoms of neuromuscular disorders include weakness, muscle wasting, and difficulty walking.
5. Immune System Dysfunction
The immune system is responsible for protecting our body from infections and diseases. Vitamin E deficiency can lead to immune system dysfunction by causing oxidative stress and damage to our immune cells. The symptoms of immune system dysfunction include frequent infections, slow wound healing, and increased susceptibility to diseases.
6. Cognitive Impairment
Cognitive impairment is a condition that affects our ability to think, learn, and remember. Vitamin E deficiency can contribute to the development of cognitive impairment by causing oxidative stress and damage to our brain cells. The symptoms of cognitive impairment include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and confusion.
Conclusion
Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in our body's functioning. Not getting enough vitamin E can lead to various deficiency diseases, including ataxia, anemia, retinopathy, neuromuscular disorders, immune system dysfunction, and cognitive impairment. It is important to include vitamin E-rich foods in our diet or take supplements to prevent these deficiency diseases.