Tocopherol
Tocopherol
Tocopherol (pronounced: toh-koh-FE-rol) is a type of Vitamin E, a group of fat-soluble compounds with distinctive antioxidant properties. The term "tocopherol" is derived from the Greek words "tocos" meaning childbirth, and "pherein" meaning to bring forth. It was named so because it was initially recognized for its role in fertility.
Types of Tocopherols
There are four types of tocopherols: alpha-tocopherol, beta-tocopherol, gamma-tocopherol, and delta-tocopherol. Each type has a different potency or level of activity in the body, with alpha-tocopherol being the most active and most commonly found in supplements and in the European diet, while gamma-tocopherol is the most common form in the American diet.
Functions
Tocopherols have antioxidant properties and are essential for the proper function of many organs in the body. They protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can lead to heart disease, cancer, and other diseases. Tocopherols also play a role in immune function, DNA repair, and other metabolic processes.
Sources
Tocopherols are found in a variety of foods. Good sources include vegetable oils (such as wheat germ, sunflower, and safflower oils), nuts and seeds, and green leafy vegetables. The amount of tocopherol in a particular food can vary depending on the method of preparation and cooking.
Deficiency and Overdose
A deficiency in tocopherol can lead to nerve damage, muscle weakness, and anemia. Overdose of tocopherol, on the other hand, can lead to nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, fatigue, headache, blurred vision, rash, and bruising and bleeding.
Related Terms
- Antioxidant
- Vitamin E
- Free radicals
- Alpha-tocopherol
- Beta-tocopherol
- Gamma-tocopherol
- Delta-tocopherol
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tocopherol
- Wikipedia's article - Tocopherol
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