Difference between Tocopherol and Tocotrienols (Why Tocotrienols Better)

According to research vitamin E is the more beneficial vitamin for your health; vitamin E is known to exist in different 8 forms, 4 forms of Tocopherols and 4 forms of Tocotrienols. For several years, researchers have studied Tocopherols for their anti-oxidative properties and other health benefits but only a few years ago they realized that Tocopherols don’t possess any of those health benefits which they were thought to possess. Mainly, both of them require fat in the diet in order to be absorbed and distributed within the body. Here, Difference between Tocopherol and Tocotrienols outlined below: 

Structure: Tocopherol molecules have a long tail with double bonds. This constrains the functional effects of the vitamin within the body. Hence, it has a very lower anti-oxidative capacity than its counterpart. Tocotrienol molecules have a short tail with three double bonds. This unique structure allows the vitamin to perform various functions, especially anti-oxidative, with greater efficacy. 

Occurrence: Tocotrienols occurs naturally in very low concentrations in certain foods. It is also referred to as a natural vitamin E. Source include vitamin wheat germ, saw palmetto, barley, oats, rye, rice, and bran. Tocopherol is the vitamin E you mainly find in drugstores; it is also known as synthetic vitamin E. Several foods that we consume are also fortified with this vitamin E. In its natural form, it is found in palm oil, rice bran, wheat germ, soya bean oil, safflower oil, peanut oil, and cocoa butter. It is also extensively utilized in the cosmetic industry as a popular ingredient in the manufacture of soaps, creams, and make-up and hair care products.

Anti-oxidative Properties: Both members of vitamin E families act as antioxidants. However, vitamin E is a more powerful antioxidant due to its unique molecular structure. The shorter tail allows quicker and more efficient movement around cells. The chemical structure of tocotrienols incorporates a chain of polymers that consists of unsaturated materials. This gives it the ability to infiltrate saturated fat cells around the brain and liver. It is a more important compound in the body’s immune system. This provides protection against cell damage in the brain, tumors and many other types of cancers. 

Cholesterol Management: Tocotrienol has proven efficiency to lower blood cholesterol levels even in small doses. It is extensively recognized as a natural aid to help support healthy cholesterol levels. It is also able to cleanse the arteries of accumulated cholesterol levels. Although tocopherol can prevent plaque formation in arteries, it is incapable to remove the plaque. The molecular structure contributes to the differences in the capacity to lower cholesterol levels. If you want to learn more about the Difference between Tocopherol and Tocotrienols, visit the Eannatto website as well.