Vitamin E Tocotrienols May Enhance Bone Health

Tocootrienols are a form of Vitamin E, abundant in annatto – derived from the seeds of the achiote trees of tropical and subtropical regions around the world.  Malaysian researchers employed a rat model of postmenopause, to which a dose of tocotrienols (human equivalent of 420 mg) was administered on a daily basis.  The team observed that the compound raised key markers of bone formation – osteoblasts, osteocalcin, and osteoid biosynthesis.  As well, tocotrienols decreased the breakdown of bone proteins and the extent of bone surface erosion.