Cigarette smoke alters human vitamin E requirements

J Nutr. 2005 Apr;135(4):671-4. doi: 10.1093/jn/135.4.671.

Abstract

Vitamin E is a lipophilic chain-breaking antioxidant that prevents lipid peroxidation. Although cigarette smoke is a potent source of oxidative stress that depletes vitamin E in vitro, it is unclear whether it has a similar effect in vivo, particularly in humans. Therefore, this review will discuss the role of cigarette smoke on gamma-tocopherol (gamma-T) nitration, its effect on alpha-tocopherol (alpha-T) biokinetics in smokers, and the changes in the synthesis, plasma concentrations, and urinary excretion of the vitamin E metabolite (CEHC; carboxy-ethyl-hydroxy-chroman). Last, the possibility of CEHC as a biomarker of vitamin E status will be assessed as will the question whether smokers have increased dietary requirements of vitamin E.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Lipid Peroxidation
  • Nutritional Requirements
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Smoking / adverse effects*
  • Vitamin E*

Substances

  • Vitamin E