While tocotrienols are similar in their chemical structure to vitamin E, they do not appear to function in exactly the same way as vitamin E in the body. Vitamin E supplements generally contain only alpha-tocopherol. New research suggests that gamma-tocopherol and tocotrienols may also be important nutrients for maintaining overall health. Nature provides mixtures of antioxidant nutrients in many plants and foods that may work together to maintain health. It seems logical to consider imitating nature's mixture of antioxidants in the dietary supplements we take.
Scientific evidence supporting the dietary benefit of tocotrienols is relatively new.
Most of the focus has been on individuals with specific health risks. These individuals may be most likely to benefit from a dietary supplement containing tocotrienols at the levels used in the aforementioned research studies. However, we are all exposed to the effects of free radicals. Tocotrienols are powerful antioxidants that may add to the body's defense against free radical activity. Daily consumption of moderate amounts of tocotrienols may be beneficial to all adults interested in optimizing their long-term nutrient status.