Alpha-tocopherol intake and status exhibit population-specific associations with metabolic syndrome among two Hispanic/Latinos populations.

Adequate alpha-tocopherol intake and status may reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS), yet evidence among Hispanics/Latinos remains limited. This study examined population-specific associations of alpha-tocopherol intake and status with MetS in two Hispanic/Latino populations and identified the main dietary sources of alpha-tocopherol. We hypothesized that alpha-tocopherol intake and status would be inversely associated with MetS and its components, with distinct food sources across populations. Cross-sectional analysis was conducted from the 2015 Health Survey of São Paulo with a Focus on Nutrition (n = 524) and Hispanic/Latino respondents of the 2017 to 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (n = 499). Alpha-tocopherol intake was assessed from two 24-hour recalls, and status from blood plasma samples. MetS was classified based on International Diabetes Federation criteria using standardized laboratory and clinical measures. Poisson regression models considered complex survey design. Alpha-tocopherol intake and status were inversely associated with higher triglycerides and MetS in the São Paulo population. Only alpha-tocopherol status was associated with higher fasting glycemia, higher triglycerides, lower HDL-c, higher waist circumference, and MetS in Hispanic/Latino individuals from the US. The food sources of alpha-tocopherol varied substantially by population. In conclusion, alpha-tocopherol intake and status were associated differently with metabolic syndrome components according to the population, underscoring the need for tailored strategies to improve alpha-tocopherol adequacy for cardiometabolic health.