Vitamin E describes a group of vitamers that all display the same physiological activity as alpha-tocopherol, the main form of vitamin E in animals. Vitamin E is an important antioxidant because it is lipid soluble and plays a unique role in protecting cell membranes from oxidative stress. Low levels of vitamin E, which can occur directly through low dietary intakes, or indirectly through a general lack of supporting antioxidants that limits the protection of the available vitamin E, can both lead to damage to cellular components, including DNA. The tocotrienols are one form of vitamin E that are limited in the diet, being present in high amounts in only a few foods including rice bran oil and palm oil. However, supplements of tocotrienols, made by concentrating these sources, can be beneficial at preventing DNA damage in humans. In one study, researchers used 160 mg per day for 6 months to lower DNA damage in healthy humans and this effect was greatest for those with the most advanced age.
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