metabolism of vitamin e

2. • During oral administration, vitamin E is packed into
chylomicrons (a large triglyceride-rich lipoprotein produced
from lipids, mainly fatty acids and cholesterol) in the
intestines and enters the circulation via lymph nodes.
• Once Vit. E is packed into chylomicrons, it can be sent either
to tissues or the liver. The hydrolysis of chylomicrons by
lipoprotein lipase enzymes in the circulation allows the
transfer of lipids and Vit. E to tissues, the chylomicron
remnants will also be taken up by the liver.

3. • Most of the Vit. E in the chylomicron remnants will be
incorporated with very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), while
the rest will be excreted in bile. Vit. E is then metabolized
through the hydroxylation and oxidation of its side chains by
cytochrome P450. final metabolites, with are carboxyethyl
hydroxychromans (CEHC) and carboxymethylbutyl
hydroxychromans (CMBHC), will then be excreted in urine
and feces.

5. • A new born baby has 25 mg Vitamin E in his body.
• Only plants can synthesize vit E
• Antagonist to the blood clotting role of vitamin K

6. Recommendations
• The Food and Nutrition Board at the Institute of Medicine Recommended Intakes for individuals
for vitamin E:
1. Infants (adequate intake of vitamin E)
0 to 6 months: 4 mg/day
7 to 12 months: 5 mg/day
2. Children
1 to 3 years: 6 mg/day
4 to 8 years: 7 mg/day
9 to 13 years: 11 mg/day
3. Adolescents and adults
14 and older: 15 mg/day
4. Pregnant teens and women: 15 mg/day
5. Breastfeeding teens and women: 19 mg/day