ARS | Publication request: Vitamin E deficiency in developing countries

Submitted to: Food and Nutrition Bulletin
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: December 15, 2010
Publication Date: June 1, 2011
Repository URL: http://docserver.ingentaconnect.com/deliver/connect/nsinf/03795721/v32n2/s6.pdf?expires=1313166076&id=63953248&titleid=41000042&accname=University+of+California%2C+Davis&checksum=C56202BF9B45A479DAC28485FC09FFE3
Citation: Dror, D.K., Allen, L.H. 2011. Vitamin E deficiency in developing countries. Food and Nutrition Bulletin. 32(2):124-143.

Technical Abstract: In addition to its role as a potent antioxidant, vitamin E is involved in a wide range of physiological processes, ranging from immune function and control of inflammation to regulation of gene expression and cognitive performance. Results from multiple studies suggest that poor nutritional status and higher prevalence of other oxidative stressors such as malaria and HIV infection predispose populations in developing countries for vitamin E deficiency. Although direct comparison between study outcomes is complicated by varied definitions of vitamin E deficiency, data trends indicate that children and the elderly are more vulnerable age groups and that men may be at higher risk for deficiency than women. Public health initiatives aimed at improving the vitamin E status of high-risk populations in developing countries would be prudent to counteract oxidative stress, improve immune function, and protect against neurologic and cognitive deficits. Additional research is needed to estabish dose-response relationships of various interventions and to develop cost-effective, culturally-appropriate, and targeted programs.