Tocopherol is a class of naturally occurring chemical compounds related to Vitamin E. It is a fat-soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties that protect cellular constituents from oxidation and prevent the formation of free radicals. Tocopherols and tocotrienols both occur in alpha, beta, gamma, and delta forms, as determined by the number and position of methyl groups on the chromanol ring.
Here are some details about tocopherol products, positive and negative effects, and ingredients or materials:
Tocopherol Products
- Tocopherol can be found in various products, including dietary supplements, household cleaners, and personal care products.
- Products with the EWG VERIFIED mark have met the programs impurity restrictions based on EWG review of company data.
Positive Effects
- Tocopherol has antioxidant properties that protect cellular constituents from oxidation and prevent the formation of free radicals.
- Vitamin E, which tocopherol is related to, is essential for maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and immune function.
Negative Effects
- Tocopherol has been associated with contamination concerns and endocrine disruption.
- Some household cleaners containing tocopherol have been confirmed animal carcinogens with unknown relevance to humans.
Ingredients or Materials
- Supplements of vitamin E typically provide only alpha-tocopherol, although "mixed" products containing other tocopherols and even tocotrienols are available.
- Synthetic alpha-tocopherol contains equal amounts of its eight possible stereoisomers, while naturally occurring alpha-tocopherol exists in one stereoisomeric form.
- Most vitamin-E-only supplements provide ≥67 mg (100 IU of natural vitamin E) of the nutrient.
- Tocopherols and tocotrienols are synthesized by photosynthesizing plants, algae, and cyanobacteria.
