Tocotrienols are capable of reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal damage
Mumbai: Brain health is often discussed in the context of genetics, ageing, and lifestyle factors such as exercise and sleep. However, an often-overlooked component of neurological well-being is diet, specifically the impact of essential nutrients on cognitive function and neuroprotection. Among these, a unique and powerful form of vitamin E found in palm oil, called alpha-tocotrienol (α-tocotrienol), is emerging as a key focus in brain health research.
Elaborating the details, Dr Shradha Maheshwari is Consultant Neurosurgeon, S L Raheja Hospital (A Fortis Associate), Mumbai said “Indeed, researchers have identified an entire family of tocotrienols, which are a specialized form of vitamin E found abundantly in palm oil, as a promising neuroprotective agent capable of reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal damage. These bioactive compounds cross the blood-brain barrier and exhibit unique mechanisms that may play a vital role in cognitive health and the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.”
Not only is palm oil free of trans fats, but it is one of the richest sources of Vitamin E antioxidants which come in two main varieties: tocopherols and tocotrienols – collectively known as Tocols. Tocotrienols are a subclass of vitamin E distinct from tocopherols. They have demonstrated strong cardioprotective, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and neuroprotective properties. Palm oil is particularly rich in α-tocotrienol, a highly potent form of vitamin E that significantly reduces neuronal inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell death.
One of the greatest challenges in neuroprotection is ensuring that beneficial compounds reach the brain. Unlike most forms of vitamin E, tocotrienols act as a potential neuroprotective agent that can prevent the development and slow the progression of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. A clinical study involving 121 individuals suggested that tocotrienols helped slow the progression of brain white matter lesions (WMLs) linked to dementia, highlighting their potential as a natural neuroprotective solution.
Tocotrienols protect the brain in multiple ways: they possess antioxidant properties, eliminate free radicals, inhibit lipid peroxidation and reduce neuroinflammation that contributes to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. Lipid peroxidation is a metabolic process where harmful oxygen molecules damage fats in cell membranes, leading to cell damage and possibly cell death. Some researchers suggest that the beneficial effects of tocotrienols may stem from their specific action on senescent cells, which are aged or damaged cells that stop dividing but stay active, contributing to inflammation and age-related diseases. By targeting these cells, tocotrienols may help promote healthier ageing and overall well-being.
