Here at Well Daily, we’re all about following the latest food trends. So when we heard about a product that could support our skin health and act as an antioxidant powerhouse, we were intrigued. Introducing tocos- the latest supplement that’s taking the wellness world by storm. We’ve seen tocos in everything from almond butter cups to smoothies to overnight oats, all touting some serious health claims behind them. So what exactly is tocos, and is it the next big thing in beauty?

WHAT IS IT

Tocos is short for tocotrienols, a form of Vitamin E found in nuts, seeds, grains, and oils. Tocopherols is the other form of vitamin E, and it is far more common in North America. Therefore, it may be beneficial to supplement with this lesser known nutrient superstar.

Most tocos supplements on the market today come from brown rice-bran solubles, which are a natural byproduct of brown rice production. When brown rice is converted in to white rice, you’re left with the hard shell that surrounds each single grain of rice. This fat and water soluble portion is the brownish-white powders you can find on the shelf of your favorite health food store known as tocos, and it’s quite the antioxidant powerhouse.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS

Vitamin E has many health and beauty implications. And while it’s often included in topical face creams and cleansers, the effects are even more profound when consumed. This antioxidant supports the skin in a number of ways, as it's naturally moisturizing and can improve symptoms of eczema and psoriasis. Its good for connective tissue as well and can help prevent fine lines and wrinkles, as well as heal acne scarring. Tocotrienols can also fight free radical damage and combat oxidative stress due to their antioxidant properties, both of which are key to longevity and healthy aging.

It’s powers aren't just skin deep however. Tocotrienol consumption can improve heart health, brain health and GI health. And if that’s not enough, it can also reduce your risk of cancer due to it’s ability to fight free radical damage. I think its safe to say that tocos are definitely worth the hype.

HOW TO -- USE IT

Tocos are flavorless and tasteless, making it easy to add in to virtually anything. People love it for it’s creamy properties, as it makes an excellent plant based coffee creamer substitute. If you do add it to a hot drink, make sure that the drink cools for a few minutes before drinking, as ultra high temperatures may affect the nutritional properties. We love adding 1 tbsp. to our morning smoothies or overnight oatmeal. You can also use it as a thickener in raw dessert recipes for an extra punch of antioxidants. Paired with raw cacao and coconut oil, we think it would make for a super superfood raw chocolate.

TRY YOUR HAND AT A TOCOS VANILLA FRAPPUCINO WITH THE RECIPE BELOW:

Ready to take your superfood game to the next level? Pick up some tocos from The Gut Lab and try this recipe from The Full Life by Rachel to make an elevated version of your favorite guilty pleasure drink. Rich and creamy, it's full of healthy fats and antioxidants. So go ahead and whip up this summer drink and get your glow on.

 

VANILLA FRAPPUCCINO RECIPE

(Prep time: 20 mins)

 

Course: beverages
Cuisine: GF, V
Keyword: tocos
Servings: 1
Author: The Full Life by Rachel

Ingredients

• 1 banana
• 1 cup cashew milk
• 1 tbsp tocos
• 1 tbsp collagen
• 1 tsp vanilla

 

Method