Vitamin E

The Vitamin E Family

Vitamin E is not made up of one compound. It consists of a family of eight compounds, each with its own form and amount of vitamin E biological activity. Biological activity refers to the actual measure of strength, or potency of the compound and its functional use for the human body.

The eight compounds, or antioxidants, that make up vitamin E include:

• Alpha-tocopherols
• Beta-tocopherols
• Delta-tocopherols
• Gamma-tocopherols
• Alpha-tocotrienols
• Beta-tocotrienols
• Delta-tocotrienols
• Gamma-tocotrienols

The Importance of Alpha-Tocopherol

Of all the antioxidant forms of vitamin E, alpha-tocopherol is the most active in the body. Researchers believe that this form of vitamin E has the greatest nutritional value and provides the most health benefits. Alpha-tocopherol is the only form of this vitamin that the human body actively maintains.

A powerful antioxidant, alpha-tocopherol works to intercept and neutralize free radicals. The free radicals are formed from the body’s normal metabolism and environmental factors such as environmental pollutants and cigarette smoke. Free radicals cause damage to cells and may be a factor to the development of cancer and cardiovascular disease.

The Difference Between Natural and Synthetic Alpha-Tocopherol

Vitamin E can be found in many food sources or it can be taken as a vitamin supplement. It is important to know that vitamin E supplements can be natural or synthetic, and there is a big difference between the two. Compared to the natural form, synthetic vitamin E has only half of the activity level. Natural forms are labeled D while synthetic forms are labeled D,L.

Natural food sources of this valuable nutrient include:

• Wheat germ oil
• Vegetable oils
• Nuts
• Fortified cereals
• Green leafy vegetables

Conclusion

An essential nutrient, vitamin E plays an important part in maintaining a healthy body while helping to protect it from the mental and physical signs of aging.