Tocotrienols

 
Tocotrienols

Tocotrienols are members of the vitamin E family. Like vitamin E, tocotrienols are potent antioxidants against lipid peroxidation (the damaging of fats by oxidation).

What Are "Star" Ratings?

a7_3star Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.

a7_2star Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.

a7_1star For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:


Used for AmountWhy
Atherosclerosis
200 mg daily2 stars Tocotrienols are potent antioxidants that may help slow down the build-up of plaque in the arteries.

2 stars Atherosclerosis

200 mg daily

Tocotrienols may offer protection against atherosclerosis by preventing oxidative damage to LDL cholesterol.3 In a double-blind trial in people with severe atherosclerosis of the carotid artery—the main artery supplying blood to the head—tocotrienol administration (200 mg per day) reduced the level of lipid peroxides in the blood. Moreover, people receiving tocotrienols for 12 months had significantly more protection against atherosclerosis progression, and in some cases reductions in the size of their atherosclerotic plaques, compared with those taking a placebo.4


Used for AmountWhy
High Cholesterol
200 mg daily2 stars Tocotrienols may lower cholesterol levels. Tocotrienols inhibited cholesterol synthesis in test-tube studies, and two trials found that tocotrienols reduced cholesterol levels by 13–15%.

2 stars High Cholesterol

200 mg daily

Tocotrienols, a group of food-derived compounds that resemble vitamin E, may lower blood levels of cholesterol, but evidence is conflicting. Although tocotrienols inhibited cholesterol synthesis in test-tube studies,5, 6 human trials have produced contradictory results. Two double-blind trials found that 200 mg per day of either gamma-tocotrienol7 or total tocotrienols8 were more effective than placebo, reducing cholesterol levels by 13–15%. However, in another double-blind trial, 200 mg of tocotrienols per day failed to lower cholesterol levels,9 and a fourth double-blind trial found 140 mg of tocotrienols and 80 mg of vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol) daily resulted in no changes in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, or HDL cholesterol levels.10


Used for AmountWhy
Stroke
Refer to label instructions 1 star In one trial, people with atherosclerosis, a condition that may contribute to stroke, who were given a palm oil extract containing tocotrienols saw significant improvement.

1 star Stroke

In a double-blind trial, people with atherosclerosis in the carotid arteries were given a palm oil extract containing 160–240 mg of tocotrienols (a vitamin E-like supplement) and approximately 100–150 IU vitamin E per day. After 18 months, they had significantly less atherosclerosis or less progression of atherosclerosis compared to a group receiving placebo.11 Vitamin E plus aspirin, has been more effective in reducing the risk of strokes and other related events than has aspirin, alone.12 However, most preliminary trials have shown no protective effects from antioxidant supplementation.13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 A large Finnish trial concluded that supplementation with either vitamin E or beta-carotene conferred no protection against stroke in male smokers,19 although a later review of the study found that those smokers who have either hypertension (high blood pressure) or diabetes do appear to have a reduced risk of stroke when taking vitamin E.20

People with high risk for stroke, such as those who have had TIAs or who have a heart condition known as atrial fibrillation,21 are often given aspirin or anticoagulant medication to reduce blood clotting tendencies. Some natural inhibitors of blood clotting such as garlic,22 , 23 , 24 fish oil,25 and vitamin E,26 , 27 may have protective effects, but even large amounts of fish oil are known to be less potent than aspirin.28 Whether any of these substances is an adequate substitute to control risk of stroke in high-risk people is unknown, and anyone taking anticoagulant medication should advise their prescribing doctor before beginning use of these natural substances.

Also indexed as:
  • alternative medicine,
  • CAM,
  • complementary and alternative medicine,
  • complementary medicine,
  • tocotrienol

About this treatment

How to Use It

The typical recommendation is 140 to 360 mg per day. Most studies have used 200 mg daily.

Where to Find It

Tocotrienols are found primarily in the oil fraction of rice bran, palm fruit, barley, and wheat germ. Supplemental sources of tocotrienols are derived from rice bran oil and palm oil distillates. Tocotrienol supplements are available in capsules and tablets.

Possible Deficiencies

As it is not an essential nutrient, no deficiency state exists.


Last Review: 05-11-2011

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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.

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