Vitamin E (D-Alpha Tocopherol)

What Is D-Alpha Tocopherols?

Have you ever picked up a bottle of vitamin E and seen “d-alpha-tocopherol” listed in the ingredients panel and wondered, “What the heck is this”? Despite the mysterious-sounding name, it is, in fact, the most common form of natural vitamin E, found in over 90% of vitamin supplements. The first thing to know is that the term “vitamin E” is used collectively for a family of eight chemical compounds; alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocopherol and alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocotrienol, each having its own distinct biological activity. Of these, alpha-tocopherol is the most biologically active form of vitamin E, and many experts believe, the only form able to reverse vitamin E deficiency.

But this only applies to “d-alpha-tocopherol”, the naturally occurring vitamin E found in foods such as plant oils, nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables.

Synthetic forms are also available as “dl-alpha-tocopherol”, which is generally derived from petroleum products, so obviously a far less desirable option. Synthetic vitamin E is also less bioavailable and only about half as potent. Clinical data has shown that because of its molecular structure, natural vitamin E is much better absorbed in the body, and because specific transport proteins in the liver can easily bind to it, natural vitamin E is more easily transported to other tissues for use. As such, it is the preferred choice and offers strong antioxidant support to the body.

Benefits of D-Alpha-Tocopherol

• Promotes Optimal Heart and Brain Health
• Provides Antioxidant Protection
• Treats Vitamin E deficiency

Who Needs D-Alpha-Tocopherol?

Your health care practitioner may recommend this supplement to promote cardiovascular health, optimal cholesterol levels, support artery health, as well as to help improve blood pressure status. D-alpha-tocopherol is also often recommended to help optimize brain function in middle-aged + adults. It is also a wonderful addition to your daily supplement regimen to enhance antioxidant protection to protect cellular DNA from free radical damage.

D-Alpha-Tocopherol Potency, Forms & Formats

Potency

D-alpha-tocopherol supplements are available in a wide range of potencies on the market, typically in 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1000 IU doses, with 400 IU being the most common.

Forms

Natural d-alpha-tocopherol supplements in dietary supplements are either listed simply as “d-alpha-tocopherol”, or as “alpha-tocopheryl acetate”, “alpha-tocopheryl succinate”, or “alpha-tocopheryl nicotinate” if they have been esterified to prolong shelf life and protect antioxidant properties. These all offer relatively comparable bioavailability and antioxidant benefits.

Formats

D-alpha-tocopherol supplements are available in capsule/soft gels, as well as liquid form. Because vitamin E is fat-soluble, supplements are usually presented in an oil base for enhanced absorbability. D-alpha-tocopherol can also be presented in dry-form either in loose powder or encapsulated; these forms are ideal for those who have difficulty digesting fats and oils.

Getting The Most Out of Your D-Alpha-Tocopherol Supplement

If you’re looking to boost your body’s antioxidant protection, vitamin E is a great place to start. If you want to take antioxidant protection to the next level, consider adding other synergistic antioxidant powerhouses to your daily supplement regimen for even greater protection for the inside and outside of your body. Think of vitamins A & C, selenium, green tea extract, turmeric, and others.