This is the one thing worth knowing before buying vitamin E. The natural form is d-alpha-tocopherol; the synthetic is dl-alpha-tocopherol, and the single letter is the whole difference. The natural form is better retained by the body.
Viridian and Natures Aid both state natural on the front. Where a pack does not say, the ingredient list will – look for the d- rather than the dl-.
Vitamin E is labelled in both international units and milligrams, which makes comparing products unnecessarily hard. Solgar give both on the pack, as 134mg for 200iu, which is the helpful approach.
When comparing two products, get them into the same unit before deciding which is better value. The headline number alone is not comparable across brands.
Vitamin E is fat soluble, so take it with a meal containing some fat. Softgels suspend it in oil already, which is why that format is common here.
Biocare's Nutrisorb liquid is the option if capsules are difficult. Because it is fat soluble it accumulates rather than being passed like the B vitamins, so stick to the amount on the pack and check any multivitamin for overlap. If you take anticoagulants, ask your GP before starting vitamin E.
FAQ
What is the difference between natural and synthetic vitamin E?
Natural is d-alpha-tocopherol and synthetic is dl-alpha-tocopherol. The natural form is better retained by the body. The ingredient list tells you which you have.
How do iu and milligrams compare?
They measure the same thing differently – 200iu is around 134mg. Convert both products to the same unit before comparing value.
Should I take vitamin E with food?
Yes. It is fat soluble, so a meal containing some fat improves absorption considerably.
Can I take it with anticoagulant medication?
Ask your GP first. Vitamin E is one to check on if you take anticoagulants.
