Question

In its role as an antioxidant, _____ guards cell membranes, body proteins, dna, and cholesterol, and thus helps prevent heart disease, cancer, macular degeneration, and other chronic diseases

Answer 1

Answer:

The answer is Vitamin E or α-tocopherol.

Explanation:

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin is first absorbed in the small intestine and is then stored at the liver. It is an antioxidant which protects cells from free radicals or reactive oxygen species (ROS). It can also prevent bad cholesterol from depositing in the blood vessels.

Vitamin E can be naturally found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. As a dietary supplement, it takes the form of  α-tocopherol. The RDA depends on the age of the person, as it may range from 4 mg to 15 mg per day.

Vitamin E deficiency is so rare that it will only occur if the person has a fat malabsorption illness like Crohn's disease, abetalipoproteinemia, etc. Symptoms of deficiency include muscle weakness, retinal degradation, peripheral neuropathy, and an immunocompromised state.