Vitamin E
Alpha-tocopherol; tocopherols and tocotrienols
Fat-soluble vitamins
Aliases / common names
d-alpha tocopherol; mixed tocopherols; tocotrienols
Natural food sources
Wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds, almonds, hazelnuts, vegetable oils, spinach and avocado.
Main wellness functions
Major lipid-soluble antioxidant; supports cell membrane protection and immune function.
Deficiency signs
Rare; may cause neuropathy, ataxia, hemolytic anemia and impaired immunity, especially with fat-malabsorption disorders.
Recommended intake
Adults: 15 mg/day alpha-tocopherol. Children: about 6-15 mg/day by age. Pregnancy: 15 mg/day. Adult UL: 1,000 mg/day supplemental alpha-tocopherol.
Excess intake effects
High-dose supplements may increase bleeding tendency and interact with anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy.
Contraindicated / caution groups
Use caution with warfarin, antiplatelet drugs, bleeding disorders or upcoming surgery.
Common dosage forms
Softgels, capsules, tablets, mixed tocopherol/tocotrienol complexes.
Common product strengths
15-268 mg (about 22-400 IU) is common; high-dose products may reach 1,000 IU.
Use precautions
Prefer food-level or moderate supplemental doses unless clinically indicated.
Supplement notes
Natural and synthetic forms differ in activity; label units may be mg or IU.
This information is for general nutrition education and product reference only. It does not replace medical diagnosis, treatment or individualized dietary advice.