Hey folks:
I've noticed a lot of loose talk about Vitamin E helping with cramping.
Since I too suffer from cramps in my legs, feet and side, I might try upping
my dosage. However, one important question remains - which Vitamin E is
helping. I know of three different types (and I know that there are more):
1. d-alpha-tocopheryl-succinate
2. d-alpha-tocopheryl-acetate
3. d-alpha-tocopherol
I believe that 1 and 2 are commonly referred to a "dry" vitamin E. I'm
specifically taking number 1 above because my neuro hinted that succinate
itself might have some benefit to PD'ers. I have no idea whether the
succinate in 1. is bioavailable or not but the faint hope was enough to help
me choose a brand. I believe that there are some significant differences in
the bioactivity of the various types and we should not lump them all together.
If someone wants to share a positive experience with Vitamin E, they should
be more specific about which form. The type should be listed on the bottle.
This might account for the fact that some people swear by Vit E and others
don't see any benefit. Also, it wouldn't hurt to mention the brand. I take
Country Life because the label on the bottle is very soothing.
Ron Reiner (49 + 1.5 yrs and counting)
