Be Selective with Vitamin E

Not all vitamin E supplements are the same. Next time you’re buying a bottle, read the label carefully.

There are eight forms of natural vitamin E — four tocopherols (alpha, beta, delta, and gamma) and four tocotrienols (alpha, beta, delta, and gamma). Most vitamin E sold in stores is alpha-tocopherol. While we know the most about alpha-tocopherol, the gamma form is rapidly coming to the fore as the vitamin E that combats inflammation.

Recent studies have shown that the tocotrienols may be much more protective of the brain than the traditional tocopherols. They may also play a major role in preventing cancer.

While vitamin E is fat soluble, toxicity is rare. However, some studies report immune suppression in doses over 1,000 international units (IU), and some people may experience muscle weakness in high doses. There is also evidence that the tocopherols may damage the tocotrienols if taken together, so take them at least three hours apart.

The form of vitamin E also matters. The most commonly sold form of vitamin E is dl-alpha-tocopherol, a synthetic. Only the natural “d” form (d-alphatocopherol) is beneficial.

One problem I have with most vitamin E supplements is that the vitamin E is mixed with vegetable oil, usually an omega-6 oil. These oils promote inflammation, increase cancer growth, and trigger lipid peroxidation. So be sure to check the label before taking your vitamin E.

You can learn even more about the benefits of supplements by reading my special report "Key Vitamins That Save Your Heart, Prevent Cancer and Keep You Living Long."