Breaking Down the Greek Letters: Understanding Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta in Vitamin E

You went a little too deep into this research, didn't you? You don't know which vitamin E supplement to take because there are 4 options in front of you. Oh, wait! There are 8. These are alpha, beta, gamma, and delta belonging to both Tocopherol and Tocotrienol. Without any doubt, the best option for you at the moment is the delta Tocotrienol vitamin E supplement. We will come to the reason for this at a later stage. Before that, we must address and understand what these 4 forms of vitamin E are and what powerful properties they possess.

Starting With the Alpha Vitamin E Form

This is probably the most popular and easily available form of vitamin E these days. It plays a very crucial role in protecting your cells from damage by free radicals. A few characteristics of this form of vitamin E are:

Biological Availability

These are easily absorbed by the human body. This is what it means to be biologically available. 

Helps with Liver Metabolism

Experts say that and according to a study published by Science Daily also, it may support overall liver health and function.

Potent Antioxidant

Vitamin E in any form is a powerhouse of antioxidants. The Alpha form reacts with lipid peroxyl radicals and inhibits chain propagation to ensure healthy aging.

Regeneration

Alpha tocopherols are easy to regenerate. The reduction process uses vitamin C or ubiquinol-10 which enhances its antioxidant capacity.

Gene Regulation

It may help regulate gene expression. It may also counter oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.

Some Other Benefits Include

• Overcoming vitamin E deficiency 

• Suitable for premature newborns 

• May reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration 

• Helpful for people suffering from cardiovascular disease (though more research is needed)

Beta Vitamin E is Next

This form of vitamin E is not that commonly available. It is the Beta-tocopherol/tocotrienol and is found in pretty low concentrations in several vegetable oils, including olive oil. You can also find it in cottonseed oil in significant amounts. Its role is that of a plant metabolite and is a common food component. It is also a natural vitamin but has less antioxidant activity even when compared to alpha-tocopherol. This is why it is way less popular than the rest of its family members.

Gamma Vitamin E, Is This That Important?

Do you know that all across the US, gamma-tocopherol is the primary form of vitamin E used? It might not be as popular as alpha tocopherols but still has very strong antioxidant properties. Experts are of the opinion that gamma-tocopherol could prove important for human health. This form of vitamin E has the potential to scavenge different types of free radicals such as reactive nitrogen oxide species. This may be beneficial in diminishing potential damage to proteins, lipids, and human DNA as well. Studies have also suggested that gamma-tocopherols may be able to inhibit cyclooxygenase activity.

Delta Vitamin E, the Undisputed King?

Delta tocopherols are undisputedly the best form of vitamin E supplement available in the market. However, an even better option available to you at the moment is Delta Tocotrienols! Yes, just when you thought that it was impossible to beat the best. Several clinical studies and applications have demonstrated that Delta Tocotrienols are far more effective in delivering some of the most incredible health benefits in the long run. A few of them are given below:

• May help reduce inflammation and improve skin, hair, and vision quality as suggested by some studies *

• This form of vitamin E may also help people suffering from burns or damaged skin, speeding up the healing process*

• Experts say that it may also support healthy blood lipid metabolism*

• A study by the National Library of Medicine also suggests that patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease may experience a significant reduction in biomarkers that lead to liver damage. (more research is underway)*

• Annatto Tocotrienol vitamin E also gets absorbed in the human body more easily and rapidly*

• May prove to be beneficial in managing the symptoms of Alzheimer's, depression, and anxiety*

• While more research is needed, some experts say that it may prove beneficial for people struggling with prostate cancer as well*

• Annatto Tocotrienol vitamin E supplements may also be helpful in reducing oxidation of LDL in the long run*

To Sum It Up For You

You’ve already seen how the power hierarchy of the vitamin E family functions. Tocopherols, despite being the most popular and widely available, are not that effective and potent in keeping you active and healthy as you age.  The best form is delta tocotrienols because it has some astounding health benefits and qualities. Some of them may:

• Reduce cardiovascular disease mortality*

• Reduce symptoms of certain brain diseases*

• Help with cancer-related issues*

• Help manage statin side effects in patients with high cholesterol*

• Lower and manage liver damage *

• Diminish oxidative stress*

• Help with problems related to respiratory tract infections *

Again, these observations are based on preliminary studies and of course, more research is needed. But, would it hurt to include natural sources of vitamin E in your diet? Nope. Wellness Extract has given you enough reasons to invest in this amazing annatto-derived vitamin E supplement. Do it already. 

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information contained within this page is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice or attention of health care professionals.