Tocotrienols: the next generation Vitamin E

Friday, 18 February 2022

Tocotrienols, the next generation Vitamin E, are more readily transferred and incorporated into cell membranes than tocopherols. The structure of tocotrienols allows for more efficient penetration into tissues and distribute more evenly in lipid membranes. Cellular uptake of tocotrienols is up to 70 times higher than that of tocopherols. Research indicates that tocotrienols exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol-lowering properties, among other actions.

Antioxidant

The antioxidant activities of tocotrienols are mediated through induction of various antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. Tocotrienols reduce oxidative protein damage and lipid oxidation.

Anti-inflammatory activity

Research suggests that tocotrienols exhibit potent anti-inflammatory activity. Tocotrienols have been shown to suppress the expression of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukins, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and cyclo-oxygenase 2 (COX-2), all of which have been shown to be involved with inflammation.

Healthy cholesterol

Tocotrienols have cholesterol-lowering properties. The mechanism of action is via inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme that is involved with the synthesis of cholesterol.

Reference: McEwen B. Vitamin E Tocotrienols: the next generation antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrient. JATMS 2019; 25(4): 204-206

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Suggested TGA Permitted Indication

Antioxidant. Reduce free radicals formed in the body
Helps reduce and decrease free radical damage to body cells
Anti-inflammatory. Relieves inflammation
Helps maintain and support healthy cholesterol

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