Vitamin E is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that serves a number of important functions throughout the body that range from protecting cells from free radicals to supporting a strong immune system, and even promoting healthy hair and skin.
It's found in many of the foods we eat including nuts, seeds, spinach, broccoli, and various oils. While it's certainly possible to get in the recommended 15 milligrams per day from diet alone, some populations such as those with heart disease, cancer, certain eye disorders, and even high-level athletes may require a bit more in the form of a supplement.
As with many dietary supplements on the market, not all vitamin E products are created equal. They tend to vary quite a bit in dosage and the form of vitamin E provided. To help you select the best vitamin E supplement, the ACTIVE Reviews Team has compiled a curated list of the top options on the market.
Why Trust Us?
The health and safety of ACTIVE's readers is of the utmost importance to us. To ensure your well-being when consuming the best vitamin E supplements, the ACTIVE.com editorial team prioritizes products that are independently tested by a third party. We've also consulted with a team of nutritionists and dieticians to ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. This helps us create the most accurate, authentic review content for our readers.
The Best Vitamin E Supplement - Our Top Picks
By clicking on the product links in this article, we may receive a commission fee at no cost to you, the reader. Sponsorships and affiliate commissions help support our research so we can help you find the best products. Read the full affiliate disclosure here.
- Best Overall Vitamin E Supplement: Nordic Naturals Vitamin E Complex
- Best Softgel Vitamin E Supplement: Bulk Supplements Vitamin E softgels
- Best Vegan Vitamin E Supplement: Deva Vegan Vitamins Natural Vitamin E
- Best Chewable Vitamin E Supplement: Lifeable™ High Potency Vitamin E Gummies
- Best Capsule Vitamin E Supplement: Ancient Nutrition Ancient Nutrients Vitamin E
- Best Vitamin E Supplement Powder: Bulk Supplements Vitamin E powder
- Best High Dose Vitamin E Supplement: Solgar Vitamin E Softgels
- Best Liquid Vitamin E Supplement: MaryRuth's USDA Organic Vitamin E Liquid Drops
Best Overall Vitamin E Supplement - Nordic Naturals Vitamin E Complex
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $
- Dosage: 22.5mg
- Type: Vitamin E complex
- Ingredients: Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol, tocotrienols, non-alpha tocopherols)
- Certifications: Third-party tested
Vitamin E exists in eight forms (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocopherol and alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocotrienol), all of which vary in their level of biological activity in the body. Most vitamin E supplements supply alpha-tocopherols due to their wide availability and cost, though research suggests it may be more beneficial to consume multiple types. Nordic Naturals Vitamin E Complex provides multiple forms of vitamin E at an affordable price point, making it our top pick for the best overall vitamin E supplement.
This formulation provides six types of vitamin E to ensure maximal antioxidant activity in the body and optimize your stores. As an added bonus, this product is third-party tested, non-GMO, gluten and dairy free, and contains no artificial colors or flavors, making it suitable for most athletes. Last but not least, Nordic Naturals makes all of their testing data publicly available, providing complete transparency as to what their products contain.
What We Like
- Provides multiple forms of vitamin E
- Affordable price point
- Third-party tested
- No artificial colors or flavors
What We Don't Like
- Some users may require more vitamin E
- Only 30 servings per bottle
BUY: Nordic Naturals Vitamin E Complex
Best Softgel Vitamin E Supplement - Bulk Supplements Vitamin E Softgels
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $
- Dosage: 303mg per serving
- Type: Alpha-tocopherol
- Ingredients: Soy oil, bovine gelatin, glycerin, purified water
- Certifications: None noted
Vitamin E supplements are available in a number of different formats from powders to liquids and softgels. In general, softgels tend to be the most common as they are found in almost any drug store and quite easy to swallow for most people. Additionally, considering that vitamin E is fat soluble, softgels are typically best absorbed as they are combined with some form of fat. Our selection for the best softgel vitamin E supplement supplies a high dose of vitamin E in softgel form, at an impressive price point.
Bulk Supplement Vitamin E softgels supply a solid 303 milligrams of vitamin E per serving in standard alpha tocopherol form. This is more than enough vitamin E to meet the needs of most people for uses such as boosting antioxidant activity in the body, supporting healthy skin, and promoting a strong immune system. These softgels are available in a few different package sizes and at less than $0.10 per serving they provide an exceptional value.
What We Like
- High dose formula supplying 303mg per serving
- Very economical
- Available in a number of sizes
- Only requires one softgel per serving
What We Don't Like
- Only provides one type of vitamin E
- Contains soy and animal products
BUY: Bulk Supplements Vitamin E Softgels
Best Vegan Vitamin E Supplement - Deva Vegan Vitamins Natural Vitamin E
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $
- Dosage: 268mg
- Type: Vitamin E complex
- Ingredients: Vitamin E, mixed tocopherols, vegan capsule, sunflower oil
- Certifications: Certified vegan
When shopping for supplements, it can be challenging to find those which are 100% void of any animal products. Thankfully with the increase in popularity of vegetarian and vegan diets in recent years, supplement companies are now producing more vegan-friendly varieties of common dietary supplements, including vitamin E. While alpha tocopherols, the main type of vitamin E, are usually sourced from plants, many of the additives used are often animal-derived. Our choice for the best vegan vitamin E supplement is vegan certified and supplies only plant-based ingredients.
Deva Vegan Vitamin Natural Vitamin E provides 268 milligrams of vitamin E per serving sourced from a mix of alpha, gama, beta, and delta tocopherols. The capsules used are made of plant cellulose and the only other ingredient is sunflower oil, ensuring this product is 100% vegan. Deva Vegan Vitamin E provides an excellent option for vegans looking to boost their vitamin E intake without compromising their diet. As an added plus, this product is free of all major allergens including, soy, gluten, dairy, and shellfish.
What We Like
- 100% vegan
- Supplies multiple forms of vitamin E
- Transparent labeling
- Free of common allergens
What We Don't Like
- No third-party testing
- Lacks tocotrienol form of vitamin E
BUY: Deva Vegan Vitamins Natural Vitamin E
Best Chewable Vitamin E Supplement - Lifeable™ High Potency Vitamin E Gummies
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $
- Dosage: 268mg per serving
- Type: Alpha-tocopherol
- Ingredients: Alpha-tocopheryl acetate, glucose syrup, sugar, water, pectin, citric acid, trisodium citrate, natural flavor, black carrot concentrate (color)
- Certifications: None noted
When it comes to vitamin E supplements, most are found in capsule or tablet form. While these are fine for most people, some prefer not to swallow pills and are in search of a more palatable option. Those looking for a tastier option are in luck as most companies now produce gummy forms of the most common vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E. Among the gummies on the market, we found Lifeable High Potency Vitamin E Gummies to be a cut above the rest.
These gummies pack 268 milligrams of alpha-tocopherol vitamin E into a tasty raspberry flavored gummy. Whether you are looking to support eye health, or reduce your risk of various diseases, this product supplies plenty of vitamin E to meet your daily needs. These gummies are a perfect choice for busy athletes or professionals on the go who prefer not to have to swallow a capsule. Last but not least, they're gluten and nut free, and void of any GMO ingredients.
What We Like
- Convenient and easy to take
- Appealing raspberry flavor
- Gluten and nut free
- No artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors
What We Don't Like
- Contains added sugars
- Only provide one form of vitamin E
BUY: Lifeable™ High Potency Vitamin E Gummies
Best Capsule Vitamin E Supplement - Ancient Nutrition Ancient Nutrients Vitamin E
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $
- Dosage: 95mg
- Type: alpha-tocopherol
- Ingredients: d-alpha tocopherol succinate, selenium, Ancient Nutrients TCM Blend, saccharomyces cerevisiae, gelatin
- Certifications: None noted
While vitamin E comes in all shapes and forms, capsules and softgels tend to be the most common. These allow for quick delivery of high doses of vitamin E, making them a convenient option for most people. That being said, not all vitamin E capsules are created equal. Some lack effective dosages, while others may simply be too expensive. Our top pick for the best capsule vitamin E supplement provides a good balance between effective dosage and price.
Ancient Nutrition Ancient Nutrients Vitamin E capsules supply a potent 95 milligrams of alpha-tocopherol based vitamin E per two-capsule serving. In addition to that, each serving contains 200 milligrams of selenium, an essential trace mineral that supports a number of processes throughout the body including immunity, fertility, and cognition. To top things off, Ancient Nutrition includes their Ancient Nutrients Blend which contains several superfoods to provide additional antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
What We Like
- Packs 95mg of vitamin E per serving
- Contains ancient nutrients blend for additional potential benefits
- Gluten, nut, and dairy free
- Free shipping
What We Don't Like
- Requires 2-capsule serving
- Contains a proprietary blend
BUY: Ancient Nutrition Ancient Nutrients Vitamin
Best Vitamin E Supplement Powder - Bulk Supplements Vitamin E Powder
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $
- Dosage: 1/4 tsp (575 mg)
- Type: Alpha-tocopherol
- Ingredients: D-alpha-tocopheryl acetate, modified starch
- Certifications: None noted
To put it plain and simple, no matter what the form, some people just do not enjoy taking supplements whether it's due to their taste, texture, or a handful of other factors. That said, in certain cases you may have to take a vitamin E supplement for medical reasons as recommended by a doctor. For these situations the powder form of vitamin E is often a suitable choice as it can be added to foods or beverages without imparting much of a taste. This allows you to get in your daily dose of vitamin E without having to swallow a capsule or tablet.
For the best vitamin E supplement powder we selected Bulk Supplements Vitamin E Powder considering it comes in at a reasonable price point and the dose can be adapted to your individual needs. Supplying 269 milligrams of vitamin E (alpha tocopherol) per 1/4 teaspoon serving, this product provides a sufficient dose for most people, though can be easily adjusted depending on your requirements. This powder makes a great option for those trying to sneak some extra vitamin E into their diet whether it be for eye health or simply boosting antioxidant intake.
What We Like
- Can be conveniently added to foods and beverages
- Economical
- Dosing can be customized to your needs
- Free of soy, dairy, and gluten
What We Don't Like
- Difficult to measure dose
- No third-party testing
BUY: Bulk Supplements Vitamin E Powder
Best High-Dose Vitamin E Supplement - Solgar Vitamin E Softgels
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $
- Dosage: 670 mg
- Type: Alpha, beta, delta, gamma tocopherols
- Ingredients: Alpha, beta, delta, gamma tocopherols; gelatin; vegetable glycerin; safflower oil
- Certifications: GMP (good manufacturing practice) certified
In some cases, the standard dose of vitamin E just won't do, therefore some people may be searching for a higher-dose version. Generally speaking, we define a high-dose vitamin E as any product that provides over the standard 268 milligram (400 IU) dose. Although you may be able to find a high-dose vitamin E that supplies the alpha tocopherol form, it's a bit more difficult to come across one that includes multiple forms. Our top pick for the best high-dose vitamin E supplement supplies multiple forms of vitamin E in a high-dose formula.
Providing a whopping 670 milligrams of vitamin E per serving, this supplement is sure to meet the needs of those with even the highest needs. Groups that tend to require more vitamin E include those with metabolic syndrome, people with issues absorbing fat, those that have had a gastric bypass surgery, and those with liver disease or cystic fibrosis. Instead of just containing the alpha tocopherol form, this product provides users with four types of vitamin E for improved absorption.
What We Like
- High-dose formula
- Gluten and dairy free
- Produced in a GMPc facility
- Provides multiple types of vitamin E
What We Don't Like
- No third-party testing
- Dose may be too high for some users
BUY: Life Extension Super Vitamin E
Best Liquid Vitamin E Supplement - MaryRuth's USDA Organic Vitamin E Liquid Drops
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $
- Dosage: 16 mg
- Type: Alpha tocopherol
- Ingredients: D-tocopherol acetate, MCT oil, organic orange oil, refined soybean oil
- Certifications: USDA organic
While capsules and softgels dominate the majority of the vitamin E market, some users may be looking for an alternative method to get in their daily dose of vitamin E. As a convenient alternative to traditional vitamin E supps, a number of companies also produce liquid forms of vitamin E. These can be easily added to food or beverages, or simply dropped right onto your tongue.
MaryRuth's USDA Organic Vitamin E Liquid Drops emerged as our top choice in the best liquid vitamin E category due to their organic, vegan-friendly ingredients and transparent labeling. This product makes a solid choice for those looking for an approachable daily vitamin E supplement for promoting immune and cognitive health. As a bonus, these drops are designed for children ages 4 and up so the whole family can use them, just adjust for the appropriate dosage. Last but not least, they're vegan-friendly and certified organic, as well as gluten and nut free.
What We Like
- Convenient option for those who dislike pills
- Safe for adults and children
- Vegan-friendly and organic
- Orange flavored
What We Don't Like
- May be difficult to measure out dosage
- Recommended dose is on the lower side for most people
BUY: MaryRuth's USDA Organic Vitamin E Liquid Drops
What to Look for in a Vitamin E Supplement
Dosage
When it comes to dosing vitamin E, you'll want to find the lowest dose that has a positive effect. In the case of vitamin E, a higher dose is not necessarily better. Many vitamin E supplements contain around 268 milligrams or 400 IUs, though this may be more than most people need. Look for a product that provides a slightly lower dose and slowly increase the dose as needed.
Type
Vitamin E is a collective group of eight compounds (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocopherol and alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocotrienol). The most common type found in supplement form is alpha-tocopherol. That said, it's best to find a supplement that provides a "complex" of several different types of vitamin E for best absorption.
Ingredients
Generally speaking, vitamin E supplements should have a relatively short ingredient list that contains vitamin E, some form of fat used as a carrier, and either a gelatin or vegetable cellulose which makes up the softgel coating. Some of the flavored liquid, gummy, or powder products may contain a few more ingredients for taste. If you are looking for a vegan-friendly vitamin E, be sure to thoroughly review the label to ensure no animal-based ingredients are used.
Certifications
Vitamin E supplements may boast a number of certifications, the most common of which being:
- Certified organic: States that the ingredients are 100% organic
- Third-party tested: Products are tested by an outside lab to ensure quality and purity
- GMPc: Products are produced in a good manufacturing practice facility with stringent quality standards
- Certified vegan: States that all of the ingredients are 100% animal free
When purchasing a vitamin E supplement, you'll have to consider your dietary preferences and goals to decide which certifications you value the most.
Benefits of Vitamin E Supplements
While it's best to get your vitamins and minerals from your diet, there are certainly a number of situations in which supplementing can be beneficial. So is the case with vitamin E. It's naturally found in vegetable oil, nuts, and eggs, but even so, some people may simply not be getting enough. Correcting a mild vitamin E deficiency can come with a number of potential benefits. Here are the main benefits associated with vitamin E supplementation:
May Help Reduce Oxidative Stress
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps fight free radicals throughout the body. When uncontrolled, free radicals can lead to increased oxidative stress in the body which may increase the risk of certain diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke.
May Help Reduce Heart Disease Risk
Supplementation with vitamin E has been shown to help reduce high blood pressure, a common risk factor of heart disease. Additionally, when combined with an omega-3 supplement, vitamin E may also help reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides, an additional risk factor of heart disease.
May Help Promote Healthy Skin
Vitamin E is often included in many topical cosmetic products for its ability to promote healthy skin. When taken orally, vitamin E shows potential for boosting skin health, though research in this area is rather limited and more studies are needed.
May Help Prevent Cognitive Decline
Maintaining optimal vitamin E levels has been associated with the prevention of cognitive decline. If your levels are on the lower side, supplementing may help reduce the risk of certain cognitive-related diseases, though additional research in this area is needed.
May Help Support Eye Health
Vitamin E is one of several vitamins and minerals associated with the prevention of macular degeneration and several other eye-related diseases. This is theorized to be due to its antioxidant properties that may help address the inflammation associated with certain eye diseases.
How We Rate Supplements
Price/Affordability (scale of $-$$$)
Prices depend on a number of factors, and tend to fluctuate over time, so we've kept our affordability rating scale simple so you can easily see how products compare:
$ = under $1 per serving
$$ = $1-2 per serving
$$$ = over $2 per serving
FAQs About Vitamin E Supplements
How much vitamin E should you take a day?
Although most people can certainly meet their vitamin E requirements from diet alone, should you choose to supplement, the recommended starting dose for adults is around 50 milligrams daily. From there you can slowly increase to an appropriate amount as recommended by a doctor or registered dietitian, usually a maximum of 268 milligrams, or 400 IUs.
What happens if you take vitamin E every day?
Daily supplementation of a low to moderate dose of vitamin E has not been associated with any significant adverse effects. That said, long term use of higher doses of above 268 milligrams (400 IUs) may increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke and prostate cancer. For most people, long-term supplementation is not necessary if you are eating a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of healthy fats and a variety of vegetables.
When should I take vitamin E?
Considering that it's a fat soluble vitamin, vitamin E should be taken with food to promote the best absorption. Many choose to take it first thing in the morning with breakfast, though taking it later in the day is fine for most people, as well.
About the Author
Daniel Preiato is a registered dietitian who specializes in sports nutrition and nutrition education. He is also a certified strength and conditioning specialist, and an avid strength athlete. He uses his background in clinical nutrition to dissect research and help individuals meet their health and fitness goals.
Discuss This Article