One that she's been including in the colorful mix of supplements she takes is vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects her from the formation of free radicals, which have been shown to cause many of the diseases associated with aging. But now she's hearing more and more about a form of vitamin E called tocotrienol, and she’s wondering if she should swap it for her daily dose.

Nutritional Health Counselor Melissa Spiesman weighs in with the following facts:

-- Long before the words antioxidant and free radicals became part of our daily vocabulary, vitamin E, applied topically by breaking open a capsule, was most often associated with its capacity to help heal burns, soothe skin conditions and prevent scarring. It is now well documented that vitamin E supplementation can reduce free radical degenerative diseases.

-- Tocotrienol  -- a form of vitamin E  -- is being called super vitamin E.

-- It has been found that tocotrienol is more easily absorbed than another form of vitamin E, tocopherol. In addition to its healing properties, tocotrienol has been found to be a key player in immune system support. Studies have been done on tocotrienol that have shown its abilities to lower cholesterol, prevent blood clotting, help to control diabetes, reverse arteriosclerosis, and that it has anti-cancer (specifically breast) and anti-tumor qualities.

-- Although tocotrienol (an edible oil) is derived and available from palm plants, wheat, barley, rice and oats, the amounts available in those sources are not sufficient to realize its true benefits and supplementation is recommended.

-- The recommended dosage for adults is 15-20mg. As vitamin E is fat soluble, it is suggested that it be taken with food.

Girlawhirl's just begun swapping her regular vitamin E for tocotrienol. She can't wait to see if she notices a difference... maybe more energy, or better resistance to those pesky colds that keep going 'round and 'round her office.

Melissa Spiesman, CHHC received her professional training at The Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City and is certified by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. In her private practice, she regularly counsels individuals and groups on a variety of health and nutrition issues, including: cravings, weight loss and management, healthy food preparation, coping with stress, and having more energy.

Have a question for Melissa? Ask her here.

The information dispensed on girlawhirl.com is not intended to be diagnostic or prescriptive. Always check with a physician or health care professional before embarking on lifestyle changes.