Evidence supporting the use of: Gamma tocopherol
For the body system: Prostate

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Gamma-tocopherol is one of the eight forms of vitamin E and has received some scientific attention regarding prostate health. Several epidemiological and experimental studies have explored the relationship between gamma-tocopherol intake and prostate function, particularly in the context of prostate cancer risk. Unlike alpha-tocopherol, which is the most common form in supplements, gamma-tocopherol is the predominant form in the American diet, mainly from nuts and vegetable oils. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that gamma-tocopherol has unique anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, such as trapping reactive nitrogen species, which may play a role in protecting prostate cells from oxidative damage. Limited human observational studies have reported an inverse association between gamma-tocopherol levels and prostate cancer risk, though results are inconsistent and sometimes confounded by co-supplementation with alpha-tocopherol, which can reduce gamma-tocopherol concentrations in tissues. Clinical trial data are sparse, and large-scale intervention studies (such as SELECT) focused mainly on alpha-tocopherol, not gamma-tocopherol, with inconclusive or negative results for prostate cancer prevention. Therefore, while there is some mechanistic and limited epidemiological support for gamma-tocopherol's benefit for prostate health, the evidence remains preliminary and not strong enough for definitive recommendations. More research, particularly well-designed clinical trials, is needed to clarify its role.

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Other body systems supported by gamma tocopherol

Arteries
Blood
Circulatory System
Immune System
Lungs
Prostate
Skin