Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin E (natural tocopherols) has been investigated for its potential role in supporting or treating arteriosclerosis (the thickening and hardening of arterial walls), primarily due to its antioxidant properties. The rationale is that oxidative modification of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is a key step in the development of atherosclerosis, and vitamin E, as a lipid-soluble antioxidant, could theoretically inhibit this process.

Early epidemiological studies suggested a possible protective effect of higher vitamin E intake against cardiovascular disease. However, subsequent large, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses have largely failed to demonstrate a clear benefit. For example, the HOPE trial (2000) and the Women's Health Study (2005) found that vitamin E supplementation did not significantly reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events or slow the progression of arteriosclerosis in high-risk populations. Some studies even suggested a potential for harm or increased risk for certain outcomes at high doses.

Overall, while the use of vitamin E for arteriosclerosis has some scientific basis rooted in its antioxidant action, the bulk of high-quality clinical evidence does not support its effectiveness for either preventing or treating arteriosclerosis. Clinical guidelines do not recommend vitamin E supplementation for this purpose in the general population. Therefore, the scientific evidence is limited and not supportive of routine use.

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