Final answer:
Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant that protects cells from damage by free radicals by scavenging them and thus preventing oxidative stress. It is also essential for the stability of cell membranes and works with other antioxidants to protect the body's health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Vitamin E, known chemically as tocopherol, plays a critical role in our body as an antioxidant. It acts to protect cells against the damage caused by harmful by-products of metabolism called free radicals. These highly reactive molecules with unpaired electrons can lead to oxidative stress and damage in the body, contributing to aging and various diseases.
In addition to its biochemical role in our bodies, vitamin E is also important for preserving the integrity of cell membranes by protecting polyunsaturated fatty acids from oxidation. a-tocopherol, having the highest vitamin activity amongst its derivatives, is particularly effective in scavenging free radicals. It donates a hydrogen atom from its hydroxyl group to free radicals, forming a stable compound and thus terminating the chain reaction of lipid peroxidation.
Vitamin E is also beneficial in food preservation, where it prevents fats from becoming rancid by avoiding their oxidation. Moreover, it works alongside other antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin A, and selenium, which collectively help reduce oxidative damage to DNA and other cellular components, supporting overall health and prevention of diseases.