Vitamin E + Mixed Tocopherols

Mixed Tocopherol

What is Mixed Tocopherol Vitamin E?

Are you confused about Vitamin E supplements? It wouldn't be surprising given the wide range of different vitamin E supplement options on store shelves, including mixed tocopherols. Let's explore the basics of vitamin E supplements and cut through the clutter.

There are eight naturally occurring forms of vitamin E, including four tocopherols: alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocopherol, and four tocotrienols: alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocotrienol. Each of these has its own unique chemical structure which dictates its biological activity inside the human body. Tocopherols and tocotrienols are said to offer different health benefits, so are more often than not supplied as either one or the other (though supplements supplying both tocopherols and tocotrienols are also available).

Alpha-tocopherol is the most common form of vitamin E and is also the form that is most easily absorbed by the body. However, research has shown that supplements that combine the four tocopherols are much more effective at enhancing the cellular antioxidant defence systems, so offer superior antioxidant protection throughout the body.

Benefits of Mixed Tocopherol Vitamin E

• Offers Antioxidant Protection Against Free Radicals
• Protects & Supports Heart and Brain Health
• Supports Vision & Eye Health

Who Needs Mixed Tocopherol Vitamin E?

Mixed tocopherol vitamin E may be recommended to prevent cellular damage caused by exposure to pollution or toxins, as well as for anyone who needs strong antioxidant protection because of lifestyle factors or family history. Practitioners also typically favour mixed tocopherol blends over d-alpha-tocopherol to help support healthy cognitive health and slow age-related degeneration which research has shown it to be superior in both these areas.

Mixed Tocopherol Vitamin E Potency, Forms & Formats

Potency

Like other forms of vitamin E, you have a range of mixed tocopherol vitamin E potencies to choose from; 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1000 IU. 400 IU being considered an average dose.

Forms

Natural mixed tocopherol vitamin E is usually labeled as “natural” or “d” vitamin E, while synthetic lab-made blends are typically labeled “dl.” Natural vitamin E is by far superior and more biologically active than synthetic E, and the body also excretes synthetic vitamin E three times faster than the natural form. Natural, mixed tocopherol supplements are also available as ester derivatives that protect against exposure to heat, light, and air, and that extend/preserve antioxidant properties.

Formats

Mixed tocopherol supplements are usually available in soft gel form in an oil base (olive oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, or others). Dry mixed vitamin E capsules can also be found featuring a dry (non-oil) powder intended for individuals who have difficulty digesting fats or oils.

Getting The Most Out Of Your Supplement

There is a wide range of mixed tocopherol vitamin E blends on the market, so it’s important to read labels carefully to select the one that best fits your needs. Some formulas will be made up primarily of alpha-tocopherol with some mixed tocopherols, while others will include all four tocopherols in roughly equal amounts, and other products still will provide mainly gamma-tocopherol but include a little bit of the other tocopherols and tocotrienols.