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Tocotrienols

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  • Vitamin E is an essential fat-soluble nutrient that belongs to the family of tocotrienols and tocopherols. Tocotrienols are found in high concentrations in cereal grains (e.g., oat, barley, rye, and rice bran). The highest level found in crude palm oil. Commercial tocotrienols are primarily obtained from natural sources, such as palm or rice bran oil.
  • The best food sources of vitamin E are vegetable oils (sunflower and olive), nuts, seeds, and fortified cereals. Tocotrienol supplements are available in capsule and tablet form.
  • Among vitamin E compounds, tocotrienols are best known for their antioxidant, heart-protective, and anticancer effects. Tocotrienols may also have cholesterol-lowering effects. Research suggests that it is common for cancer patients to combine vitamin E (mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols) and chemotherapy.

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