Alpha Tocopherol: Vitamin E

Alpha tocopherol, more commonly known as vitamin E, is an important bodily nutrient and the most powerful lipid antioxidant. While it is one of the most vital antioxidants, alpha tocopherol behaves very differently than other types. Unlike the other fat-soluble (hydrophobic) antioxidants that can be stored in the liver for long periods of time until they are needed, alpha tocopherol is stored throughout body fats and is used up very quickly.

And unlike most antioxidants that are either created by the body or are easily obtained by the foods we eat, alpha tocopherol is not able to be made by the body and is found in very small amounts in most foods. This fact is what leads many health care providers to recommend their patients take a multivitamin, especially one that is high in vitamin E.

What makes alpha tocopherol so important is its ability to effectively protect the body from free radical cell damage that may cause:

Since you may need to consider an alpha tocopherol supplement to obtain sufficient amounts of this vital nutrient, it is important to speak with your health care provider. He or she will be able to recommend multivitamins and supplements that will work best for your specific dietary needs.