A vitamin E supplement is used to prevent vitamin E deficiency. People who are unable to absorb enough vitamin E from their diets need vitamin E supplements to stay healthy. Vitamin E in important to help maintain healthy skin and immune system. It is essential that Vitamin E is present in many cells, including heart muscle cells. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient present in many foods that protects cells from free radical damage by acting as an antioxidant in the body. Our bodies produce free radicals when they convert the food we eat into energy. Free radicals might play a role in major sicknesses and diseases. Providing protection against oxidative damage is one of the primary functions of vitamin E.