Natural Vitamin E Mixed Tocopherols 60C

Overview Naturally occurring vitamin E refers to a family of fat soluble molecules which include tocopherols. There are four different forms of vitamin E tocopherols: alpha, beta, gamma and delta.1 The most widely studied forms of vitamin E include alpha tocopherol and gamma tocopherol. Alpha-tocopherol, in its natural d-alpha form, is the form primarily retained in the body and found circulating in the bloodstream. Gamma-tocopherol is the form found most abundantly in food, although heat and oxidation during cooking and processing can destroy it. In the past, most research focused on the role that alpha tocopherol plays; however, new evidence is emerging regarding gamma tocopherol’s role in supporting health.2,3 Through its antioxidant activity, vitamin E has been shown to support cardiovascular, neurological, ocular and immune health. 

CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

• Provides Protection Against Free Radical Damage 
• Maintains Normal Inflammatory Balance 
• Promotes Cardiovascular and Nervous System Health LDL activity

The Natural Vitamin E Mixed Tocopherols formula provides full-spectrum, fat-soluble vitamin E to reduce the effects of free radical activity throughout the body. Natural Vitamin E is formulated to maximize antioxidant protection and provide support for cardiovascular health. The formula includes a blend of mixed tocopherols. Each serving provides 800 IU d-Alpha tocopherol and 400 mg of additional non-alpha tocopherol forms for comprehensive antioxidant protection. 

Antioxidant Support† In a study of oxidative stress on human blood cells, mixed tocopherols had a stronger protective effect on lipid peroxidation than alpha-tocopherol alone, due to gamma and delta tocopherols ability to trap and neutralize other free radicals in the cell.5 

Antioxidants are substances that protect cells from the damaging effects of free radicals, in our environment or produced endogenously. Free radicals are unstable molecules that contain an unshared electron. Free radicals damage cells and might contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer (*).

Sources of free radicals include those produced internally through physiologic stress like exercise and also environmental exposures including cigarette smoke (first and second hand), UV rays from the sun and pollution.

Vitamin E is a free radical scavenger, essentially diffusing the dangerous capabilities of free radicals and protecting cells in the process. Because free radicals have the capability to damage cell membranes, proteins and nucleic acids, they can contribute to cancer risk. Take for example free radicals from UV rays causing skin cancer. Antioxidants including vitamin e, vitamin c and selenium may therefore play a role in cancer prevention and other chronic illness associated with free radical damage (*).

Immune Support and Inflammatory Balance † Research has demonstrated that supplementation with vitamin E promotes a healthy immune response. In a study examining vitamin E supplementation in an elderly population, 60 to 800 mg of vitamin E improved several aspects of cell- mediated immunity within six to 12 months.6 In another study, ingestion of 400 IU of vitamin E for eight months supported immune function by improving macrophage-mediated response.7

A tocopherol mixture rich in gamma tocopherol has been shown to maintain normal inflammatory balance by reducing oxidative damage, trapping of unique free radicals called reactive nitrogen species, and inhibition of abnormal arachidonic acid metabolism.8 In animal studies delta tocopherol was more active compared to alpha or gamma tocopherols in supporting cellular integrity, possibly through trapping reactive oxygen and nitrogen species that cause cellular damage.9 

Not only does vitamin E protect cells against damage but it also helps regulate immune function. Vitamin E is involved in regulation of gene expression and cell signalling. Because of its role in immune function, it is found in higher concentrations in immune cells compare to other cells (*). In fact, research shows it is one of the most effective nutrients that keeps the immune system running smoothly.

Adequate vitamin E allows for optimal immune functioning, reducing the risk of infections. How? Vitamin E regulates T-Cell function. T-cells are a type of white blood cells that play a key role in immunity. These cells circulate and identify foreign substances that need to be eliminated.  Vitamin E affects T cell membrane integrity, cell division, and signalling. It also indirectly impacts the inflammatory immune cascade.

Cardiovascular Health † The oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and other lipoproteins can be a major detriment to cardiovascular health. Research has also shown that vitamin E is incorporated into LDLs.10,11 By supporting antioxidant activity within LDLs, vitamin E helps maintain cholesterol integrity, normal white blood cell activity, and normal inflammatory balance, which is crucial for cardiovascular health.11,12 A double-blinded study found subjects receiving gamma-tocopherol experienced significant cardiovascular support by maintaining healthy LDL cholesterol levels and normal platelet aggregation.12 

It’s not surprising that vitamin E may play a role in preventing or delaying heart disease since we know it functions as an antioxidant, protecting cells and tissues.

Observational studies, looking at large groups of people have shown lower rates of heart disease among populations with higher vitamin E intakes. A study of almost 100,000 nurses found a 30-40% lower incidence of heart disease among those with the highest vitamin E intake. (A)

There are several proposed mechanisms for why vitamin E may lower heart disease risk. First, some studies have shown that vitamin E inhibits the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Although most believe LDL cholesterol itself to be bad, it’s the oxidized form of LDL that contributes to arterial plaque formation (*).

Finally, vitamin E helps keep blood vessels flexible so they widen. This helps blood flow freely while preventing catastrophic health problems like heart attack and stroke caused by blood clots and blockages from arterial plaque (*).

Directions 1-2 soft gel capsules per day or as recommended by your health care professional. 

Does Not Contain Gluten, corn, yeast, artificial colors and flavors. 

Cautions If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your physician before taking this product. Vitamin E can have a slight blood thinning effect. You should discuss this with your treating doctor. 

References

1. Office of Dietary Supplements. Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Vitamin E. 2012;Available at: http://ods.od.nih.gov/ factsheets/vitamine/

2. Helzlsouer KJ, Huang HY, Alberg AJ, et al. Association between alpha-tocopherol, gamma-tocopherol, selenium, and subsequent prostate cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst 2000 Dec 20;92(24):2018-23. 

3. Available at: http://www.berkeley.edu/news/media/ releases/97legacy/christen.html

4. Lauridsen C, Jensen SK. alpha-Tocopherol incorporation in mitochondria and microsomes upon supranutritional vitamin E supplementation. Genes Nutr Feb 22 2012. 

5. Liu M, Wallmon A, Olsson-Mortlock C, Wallin R, Saldeen Mixed tocopherols inhibit platelet aggregation in humans: potential mechanisms. Am J Clin Nutr Mar 2003;77(3):700-706.

6. Meydani SN, Meydani M, Blumberg JB, et al. Vitamin E supplementation and in vivo immune response in healthy elderly subjects. A randomized controlled trial. JAMA 1997 May 7;277(17):1380-6. 

7. Tsoureli-Nikita E, Hercogova J, Lotti T, Menchini G. Evaluation of dietary intake of vitamin E in the treatment of atopic dermatitis: a study of the clinical course and evaluation of the immunoglobulin E serum levels. Int J Dermatol 2002 Mar;41(3):146-50. 

8. Yang CS, Lu G, Ju J, Li GX. Inhibition of inflammation and carcinogenesis in the lung and colon by tocopherols. Ann N Y Acad Sci Aug 2010;1203:29-34. 

9. Li GX, Lee MJ, Liu AB, et al. delta-tocopherol is more active than alpha – or gamma -tocopherol in inhibiting lung tumorigenesis in vivo. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) Mar 2011;4(3):404-413. 

10. Higdon, J; Linus Pauling Institute Micronutrient Information Center. Vitamin E. Available at: http://lpi. oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/vitaminE/. Updated November 17, 2011.

11. National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Vitamin E. http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/vitamine/. Reviewed October 11, 2011.

12. Singh U, Devaraj S, Jialal I. Vitamin E, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Annu Rev Nutr 2005;25:151-74. Review.