Vitmin E (alpha-tocopherol acetate) is a very popular vitamin, as many people believe it is the vitamin that will slow down the aging process and keep their skin looking fresh and young. Vitamin E was first discovered in the 1920s, but only now as a result of numerous studies are we appreciating the important work that it does in the body. It does seem that vitamin E offers a multitude of benefits.
The benefits of vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that is carried around the body by the blood and is stored in the fatty tissues and the liver. It is one of the natural antioxidants that help protects cells from free radicals (substances that damage and kill off healthy cells). This has lead some doctors to believe that vitamin E can help slow down the aging process.
Heart disease
Vitamin E is essential for healthy heart function and circulation by protecting our cells and helping prevent the build up of plaque in the arteries. It also thins the blood to help prevent heart disease. Recent studies have shown that vitamin E supplementation significantly lowers the risk of heart disease. Some doctors believe that it can protect the heart from strokes and heart attacks by reducing the harmful bad cholesterol in our arteries. Vitamin E has also been shown to increase the body’s immune response and therefore protect against disease and cancer.
Skin: Helps with condition, regeneration and youthful appearance. Helps heal skin and it can prevent thick scar formation and accelerate the healing of burns.
Blood pressure: Vitamin E has been shown in some studies to help reduce blood pressure.
Cell Respiration: Maximizes the availability of oxygen to organs and muscles. Some athletes take this supplement for this reason.
Reproduction: Essential for a healthy reproductive system.
Eye health: Cataracts appear to be formed by the oxidation of proteins in the lens of the eye, which may be prevented by antioxidants such as alpha-tocopherol. To date, observational studies have examined the association between vitamin E consumption and the incidence and severity of cataracts.
Vitamin E supplements
Most of us will get all the vitamin E we need in our daily diet but if you feel you need extra always discuss your individual requirements with your doctor. Choose natural vitamin E sometimes labeled (d-alpha) over synthetic ones labeled (dl-alpha).
Dosage
If you decide to take a vitamin E supplement take it at the same time each day with a meal. The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) is 10mg. A typical therapeutic daily dose is 67mg to 670mg but doses of 200mg to 400mg are most common. Daily intake should not exceed 800mg. Multivitamins usually contain about 40 mg of vitamin E and even at this fairly low dosage it has been shown to indicate some protection against cancer in smokers.
Signs of deficiency
There are no real deficiency signs but the life of red blood cells may be shortened. People who eat a balanced diet are not at risk of deficiency.
Precautions
High doses (above 670mg daily) can be toxic and cause blood thinning, so should not be used by people taking anti-clotting medication such as Warfarin or heparin. People with high blood pressure should start on a low dose and increase gradually under professional supervision. Diabetics should have their dosage monitored carefully as vitamin E can affect insulin requirements.
sources of vitamin E:
Wheat-germ oil is an exceptional source, eggs, almond oil, corn oil, cottonseed oil, olive oil, palm oil, peanut oil, safflower oil, soybean oil, whole grains, whole-wheat flour and grains, nuts and seeds especially almonds and hazelnuts, sunflower oil, soya beans, avocados, pulses and beans, margarines and leafy green vegetables.
Ask Alva
What is meant by the term RDA?
— Jono
RDA is the Recommended Daily Allowance that a government determines are the bare minimum amount of vitamins and minerals needed to prevent serious deficiency. It should not be confused with maximum safe daily dose (MSDD).
— Alva
alva.arabnews@naturalhealthlines.com
Vitamin E
Vitamin E
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Sign’ burgers in Riyadh
- One of the highlights was the Sign box, which includes four burgers and four fries, ideal for gatherings
If you’re in Riyadh and looking for a burger spot that delivers on both taste and value, Sign should be on your list.
With eye-catching pink branding and loyal customers, it is clear they have tapped into a winning formula: simple, good food done right.
I tried their classic burger meal, which includes fries and a drink, and was genuinely surprised to get all that flavor for just SR24 ($6.40). The patty was juicy, the bun soft, and the sauce had the perfect tang without overpowering the rest of the ingredients. It felt well-balanced and satisfying, not greasy or heavy.
One of the highlights was the Sign box, which includes four burgers and four fries, ideal for gatherings. Sign uses locally sourced ingredients from Saudi farms, which is also a major plus — you can taste the difference in the quality of the meat and vegetables.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite through their drive-thru or sitting down with friends, it’s a spot that gets it right without overcomplicating things.
If there is one downside, it is the wait. The place is almost always packed — a sign (no pun intended) of how popular it has become. But if you are happy to queue, it is absolutely worth checking out.
For more, check their Instagram @signsa_
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Avindar Lounge’ in Riyadh
- The lights are dimmed every Tuesday night for a candlelit experience with a pianist playing live music, creating an atmospheric experience for guests
With four locations across the Kingdom’s capital, Avindar Lounge offers a space where you can enjoy lush greenery and good food.
The lounge I visited is located on the northeast side of Riyadh and includes a separate section for smokers.
The menu is diverse and appeals to different tastes, so you can sample anything from Middle Eastern kebabs to pasta and burgers.
The lights are dimmed every Tuesday night for a candlelit experience with a pianist playing live music, creating an atmospheric experience for guests.
I tried the mixed appetizer, which was flavorful and memorable. It included hummus, tabouli, dolma, and baba ghanoush.
And while I am generally not a fan of sweet beverages, I genuinely enjoyed their hot chocolate, which was not overwhelmingly sweet or creamy.
However, considering the portion sizes, which are enough for one person, customers might find the prices a bit high.
But the music and bird sounds, paired with the lounge’s colorful and cozy interior, make Avindar a refreshing spot for dining or coffee with friends.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Dakkat Haretna’ restaurant in Riyadh
Located in the bustling Al-Munsiyah neighborhood of Riyadh, Dakkat Haretna is a charming eatery that captures the essence of Saudi Arabia cuisine.
The interior is adorned with Qatt Asiri art, traditional Saudi motifs that resonate with the spirit of the region. The windows, designed in the Hijazi roshan style, add to the charming appeal of the space which is cozy and family friendly.
Behind the menu is chef Douha Al-Otaishan, whose vision brings to life dishes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Saudi Arabia.
I sampled the beetroot salad, which had refreshing ingredients, complemented by feta cheese balls and crisp lettuce, that set the stage for the main course.
The marqooq beef and “happiness kabsa,” Al-Otaishan’s signature dish, were both memorable. I polished off the flavorful marqooq in no time.
The kabsa, with its tender chicken, was delightful despite the rice being a tad drier than what I usually enjoy. The accompanying tangy red sauce elevated the dish by adding a burst of flavor.
Other notable options for those wishing to explore Saudi cuisine are jareesh, qursan, and kubaiba Hail.
Their breakfast menu is equally enticing, providing classics including tamees, foul, and shakshooka, available from 7 a.m.
If you enjoy cooking and want to recreate Saudi dishes at home, the restaurant also offers the chef’s blends of spices.
With attentive service, fair prices, and a calm ambiance free of noisy music, Dakkat Haretna is a comfortable place to enjoy traditional dishes or try something new.
Whether you are familiar with Saudi cuisine or just curious, it is a spot worth visiting.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Olala Roastery’ – coffee roasters in Saudi Arabia
- The packaging is part of the Olala experience — lively illustrations, custom stickers and even branded takeaway cups. Every element reflects fun and youthful energy, making it perfect for gifting or for coffee lovers with an eye for design
Olala Roastery is one of the most recognizable names among local coffee roasters in Saudi Arabia.
I tried two of their signature boxes: Nsahsah (Wake Me Up) and Mw Eadi (Not Your Usual), each with labeled blends and a colorful unboxing experience.
The Not Your Usual box featured two exceptional beans — vista and roza. Vista quickly became a favorite, thanks to its smooth body, light acidity, and a finish that felt both clean and vibrant. It was the kind of coffee that stood out from the first cup. I finished it so quickly — it was the best I have ever tried.
Roza, with its subtle fruity tones, offered a more delicate profile that worked beautifully for slower mornings.
The packaging is part of the Olala experience — lively illustrations, custom stickers and even branded takeaway cups. Every element reflects fun and youthful energy, making it perfect for gifting or for coffee lovers with an eye for design.
One drawback, however, was the inconsistency between the flavor notes written on some of the packaging and the actual taste of the coffee. The flavor profiles were not as clear or defined as described, which may leave some drinkers guessing — especially those who choose beans based on specific expectations.
Still, Olala Roastery delivers fresh, well-roasted coffee wrapped in a full sensory experience, making it a creative and proudly Saudi addition to the specialty coffee scene.
For more information, check @olala.roastery on Instagram.
Where We Are Going Today: Ashwag restaurant in Jeddah
- Ashwag’s cozy atmosphere offers comfort and privacy, making it a perfect spot for families
If you are craving comforting Turkish flavors in a cozy, family-friendly setting, Ashwag restaurant in Jeddah is the place to go.
Since 1975, Ashwag has been a favorite for families seeking authentic Turkish food in Jeddah and Makkah. For many of us who grew up in Jeddah, it holds a special place in our hearts.
The menu features traditional dishes including mixed grills, juicy shish tawook, shawarma platters, meat with eggplant, and more.
My top pick is the Iskender meat: tender shawarma-style cuts over soft Turkish bread soaked in ghee, topped with tomato sauce, and served with fresh, creamy yogurt. It is a dish that brings back weekend family memories.
Ashwag’s cozy atmosphere offers comfort and privacy, making it a perfect spot for families. The decor blends vintage charm with a classic feel, creating a warm and welcoming vibe.
For dessert, try their baklava, sutlac (rice pudding), kunafa, caramel pudding, and basbousa. All pair wonderfully with Turkish tea to finish your meal.
With Turkish pies, rich tajines, and plenty of vegetarian options, Ashwag offers a great balance of tradition and variety. There is something for everyone.
For more details, check Instagram @ashwag_restaurant.
