Two types of vitamin E have cognitive benefits
by Newsletter Editor
Vitamin E comes in two main forms, tocopherols and tocotrienols, but earlier studies have focused mostly on tocopherols.
In one study, researchers measured all forms of vitamin E in 166 people with mild cognitive impairment, 168 with AD, and 187 cognitively normal people.
Participants with no cognitive impairment had 13 percent higher levels of tocopherols compared to those with AD, and 20 percent higher levels than those mildly impaired. Tocotrienols were 29 percent higher compared to those with AD, and 21 percent higher than in those who were mildly impaired.
Discussing their findings, doctors said that although we do not yet fully understand how the antioxidants in vitamin E tocopherols and tocotrienols work, these antioxidant properties are the most likely reason for the cognitive benefits, which may contribute to the lower incidence of cognitive impairment and AD.