Disclosed are methods of using nutritional compositions generally, and infant formulas specifically, to improve cognitive, brain and/or central nervous system development in an individual. The nutritional compositions include a combination of RRR-alpha tocopherol acetate, non-RRR-alpha-tocopherol stereoisomers, fat, and protein. The amount of non-RRR alpha tocopherol stereoisomers in the nutritional compositions is limited.