The results of some research into vitamin E have suggested that the typical form used in many commercial synthetic supplements, dl-alpha tocopherol, can actually harm you by converting into a free radical itself. Because it is synthetic, it has the potential to unbalance your body's natural antioxidant systems. Despite these concerns, there are a number of studies that document beneficial activities of dl-alpha tocopherol including roles in the following:

• Heart disease
• Asthma and allergies
• Menstrual pain
• Diabetes
• Mental function
• Hot flashes

Additional research has found that another component of the vitamin E complex naturally found in foods, gamma-tocopherol, may also be very important to take, because it can help treat certain types of cancer. Now studies are finding that tocotrienols may be the best part or form of vitamin E to take.

It appears that the most effective form of vitamin E is the entire natural complex. This complex, which is present in its whole, intact form in a number of different foods, contains all of the above. It contains dl-alpha tocopherol, gamma-tocopherol, many other tocopherols and tocotrienols. It also contains selenium and a host of additional, important components, many of which are health promoting in their own right.

Of course, many of the components of the vitamin E complex are obviously helpful, but why not just eat healthy organic food?

I am aware of the arguments that depleted soils make it very difficult to get large doses of vitamin E in food, and that we may need larger quantities of the vitamin to address all the toxins we are exposed to in our current environment. Another argument is that there are limited side effects from taking vitamin E.

Despite all these issues, I remain convinced that, in most settings, if you eat a healthy diet there is a very limited need for supplements, and that includes vitamin E, in its many forms.

The best food sources of vitamin E include raw nuts and seeds, and leafy green vegetables, both of which are foods I recommend as part of the Total Health Program.

If you still feel you need to supplement your diet, it's best to use a vitamin E supplement that most closely mimics the form of vitamin E found in these foods. Such supplements should either contain concentrated doses of foods high in vitamin E, or most closely mimic the entire vitamin E complex, and contain both mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols.

I recently researched this topic and now recommend E-Gems Elite, from Carlson. It is one of the most potent and complete vitamin E supplements on the market. You can find E-Gems Elite in most of your local health food stores. For your added convenience we also carry it in our online store.

Related Articles:

What are Tocotrienols, and Why do You Need Them?

Are You Taking the Right Form of Vitamin E?

Controversy Surrounds Vitamin E Risks