Tocotrienols: A Natural Solution to Metabolic Syndrome, Backed by Clinical Science

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) refers to a cluster of cardiometabolic dysfunctions that significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and mortality (1).

A person is considered to have metabolic syndrome (MetS) if they exhibit at least 3 of the following 5 risk factors (1):

• High Blood Sugar

• High Triglycerides (TG) level

• Elevated Blood Pressure

• Abdominal Obesity/ Central Obesity

• Low HDL level (good cholesterol)

While diet and lifestyle remain the cornerstone of management, research into natural bioactive is gaining momentum. One compound standing out for its multi-targeted benefits is tocotrienol, a lesser-known member of the vitamin E family.

What are Tocotrienols?

Tocotrienols (T3), a distinct class within the Vitamin E family, differ from tocopherols (T) in both structure and function. Tocotrienols exist in 4 isoforms namely α-, β-, γ- and δ-tocotrienols, these molecules are naturally found in palm oil, rice bran and annatto seeds.

Due to their unsaturated side chains, tocotrienols have a more flexible structure that allows them to penetrate cell membranes more efficiently (2). This unique feature gives tocotrienols up to 60 times greater antioxidant capacity, along with superior anti-inflammatory and lipid-modulating effects—making them a compelling ingredient for addressing the root causes of metabolic dysfunction.

Clinical Evidence in Humans

Emerging clinical trials - particularly those using tocotrienols derived from palm have shown significant potential in managing metabolic syndrome markers.

• Cholesterol Reduction (3)

Tocotrienols significantly reduced Total Cholesterol (TC), LDL-cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and oxidative stress markers such as F2-isoprostanes, malondialdehyde (MDA) in patients with Non-Familial Hypercholesterolemia (NFH)

• Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension/ Pre-eclampsia (4)

In a randomized, double-blind controlled trial, antenatal supplementation with tocotrienols significantly reduced the incidence of Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension (PIH) & pre-eclampsia 

• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) (5)

A daily dose of 50mg Tocotrienol-rich Fraction (TRF) for 6 months significantly reduced AST (a liver enzyme), pro-inflammatory cytokines (Il-6) and DNA damage in obese children with NAFLD

How Do Tocotrienols Work?

Tocotrienols modulate metabolic health through multiple biochemical pathways:

• Cholesterol reduction via inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol synthesis (6)

• Anti-inflammatory action by suppressing inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukine-6 & Tumour Necrosis Factor- Alpha (TNF- α) (6,7)

• Antioxidant enhancement by increasing levels of total vitamin E & key antioxidant enzymes such as Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx)  (8,9)

These mechanisms make tocotrienols not only suitable for stand-alone supplements but also as a functional ingredient in metabolic wellness beverages, powders, functional food, capsules and softgels.

Most researched Palm Tocotrienols

Trusted by over 30 partners globally, Gold Tri.E^TM tocotrienol and tocopherol complexes serve as a powerful solution for brands aiming to formulate products targeting metabolic health. Key strengths of Gold Tri.E^TM Palm Tocotrienols include:

• Sustainably sourced raw materials with a fully traceable supply chain

• Proven efficacy in nine human clinical studies

• Safe for diverse populations, including pregnant women and obese children

Contact us now for the gold standard tocotrienols!  

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SD Guthrie International Nutrition (SDGIN), as a subsidiary of SD Guthrie Berhad, adheres to the Group's threes charters that outline our commitments to responsible agriculture practices, human’s rights, as well as innovation and productivity, and resonates with our promise of Delivery Sustainable Future.