Tocotrienols are members of the vitamin E
family. Like vitamin E, tocotrienols are potent
antioxidants against lipid peroxidation (the damaging of fats by oxidation).1
2
Where are they found?
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.
Tocotrienols have been
used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the
individual health concern for complete information):
Who is likely to be deficient?
As it is not an essential nutrient, no deficiency state exists.
How much is usually taken?
The typical recommendation is 140 to 360 mg per day. Most studies have used 200 mg
daily.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
No significant adverse effects have been reported with tocotrienols.3
Are there any drug
interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with tocotrienols. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
References:1. Kamal-Eldin A, Appelqvist LA. The chemistry and antioxidant properties
of tocopherols and tocotrienols. Lipids 1996;31:671–701 [review].
2. Kamat JP, Devasagayam TPA. Tocotrienols from palm oil as potent
inhibitors of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation in rat brain mitochondria. Neurosci
Lett 1995;195:179–82.
3. Theriault A, Chao JT, Wang Q, et al. Tocotrienol: a review of its
therapeutic potential. Clin Biochem 1999;32:309–19 [review].