Vitamin E is an antioxidants are important for active people as they help to neutralise the free radicals caused by heavy training. Free radicals are molecules in the body caused by strenuous exercise that can cause damage to the cells and are responsible for aging amongst other things.

Vitamin E is the most important antioxidant nutrient. It helps with healing, prevents scarring, keeps nerves, cell membranes and red blood cells healthy – so is excellent for recovery after illness or surgery.

Following foods are excellent sources:

• avocado pears
• asparagus
• tomatoes
• carrots
• sweet Potato
• red Peppers
• spinach
• butternut squash
• watercress
• broccoli
• eggs
• nuts
• oil rich fish
• polyunsaturated margarine
• sunflower seeds
• vegetable oils
• wheatgerm
• olive oil

Don’t prepare your fruits and vegetables too early as exposing them to oxygen will reduce the amount of vitamin E held in them. Cooking at high temperatures will also destroy vitamin E – so avoid frying and roasting if possible. Laxatives and senokot will diminish your body’s capability of absorbing vitamin E from foods so try increasing the fibre in your diet and drinking plenty of water to help with constipation instead.