I N PROF I LE
Metabolic syndrome (a cluster of metabolic conditions generally associatedwith obesity, which can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes) often precedes cardiovascular disease. Clinical trials demonstrate that annatto-derived tocotrienols improve glycaemic control in diabetic patients. One study used a dosage of 250 mg, whereas patients in a second study received 500 mg. Both trials demonstrated a significant effect on lowering glycaemic markers (fasting blood glucose and glycated haemoglobin), improving insulin sensitivity) and reducing inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. Another common risk factor for obesity is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is excess fat storage in the liver. In two clinical trials with NAFLD patients, annatto tocotrienol was shown to significantly reduce liver-related biomarkers, fatty liver index, and HOMA-IR scores. Dosages administered were 600 mg daily for 12 weeks in one study, and 24 weeks in the other.
Both studies showed significant reductions in serum amino transferases (15-21 percent), triglyceride levels (11-13 percent), oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (14-19 percent), C-reactive protein (18-21 percent), and fatty liver index score (11-15 percent). Weight loss was observed to be 4.4 kg after 12 weeks, and 6.8 kg after 24 weeks of supplementation. At 24 weeks of supplementation, additional metabolic risk factors, including the critical hormones adiponectin and leptin, were also examined. Adiponectin increased by 44 percent, signifying improved regulation of glucose control and fatty acid breakdown. Leptin decreased by 18 percent, lowering inflammatory status. Additionally, HOMA-IR - a measure for insulin resistance - was reduced by 15 percent in patients in the tocotrienol group, and they were three times as likely to see a 1-degree to 2-degree reduction in hepatic steatosis. Such observable reversals
and liver improvements by tocotrienol supplementation - not seen with tocopherol – have set a new benchmark for vitamin E benefits. Inflammation and oxidative stress Multiple clinical trials consistently show beneficial effects of annatto tocotrienol on inflammation and oxidative stress. In a study testing its effect on bone health in postmenopausal women, annatto tocotrienol reduced oxidative stress marker 8-OHdG, resulting in a 115 percent improvement bone turnover and 13 percent reduction in bone resorption. References available on request. Dr Barrie Tan is hailed as the world’s foremost expert on vitamin E. With a PhD in Chemistry/Biochemistry, Dr Tan is committed to the research and development of phytonutrients that reduce and slow chronic disorders.
To learn more from Dr Barrie Tan, tune in to our podcast at govita.com.au/pages/wellness-hub
Power up with ginseng Fusion Energy features Korean ginseng to relieve fatigue and increase energy and physical endurance based on its traditional use in Chinese medicine. Plus ashwagandha, astragalus, Siberian ginseng, American ginseng and the medicinal mushrooms reishi and cordyceps.
Always read the label. Follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.
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ISSUE 62 • 2021
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