An antioxidant nutrient, vitamin E is found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils

How it delays aging: Research suggests that vitamin E's antioxidant power may help prevent heart disease and cancer, boosts the immune system, and possibly helps normalize blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

Vitamin E also seems to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers at Columbia University and other centers gave 341 people with moderately severe Alzheimer's disease 2,000 international units (IU) of vitamin E a day for 2 years. At the end of the study, researchers concluded that E had slowed the mental deterioration of those people by about 25 percent, mainly in their ability to perform everyday tasks such as dressing, using the toilet, and eating.

What you'll find. Vitamin E comes irk 100 , 200 , or 400 IU capsules. It's also available in liquid.

Recent studies have found that our bodies absorb the natural form of vitamin E (d alpha tocopherol) more effectively than the synthetic kind (dl alpha tocopherol). You'll pay more for the natural kind, however.

How much to take: The Daily Value is 30 IU not enough, suggests some research, to head off heart disease or other illnesses. Aim for 100 to 400 IU, recommends Dr. Blumberg. Take vitamin E with a meal that contains a small amount of fat. You'll absorb it better.

Be aware: If you are taking anticoagulant drugs, use vitamin E only with medical supervision, says Dr. Blumberg.