Hyperlipidemia and the use of tocopherol in antioxidant cocktails in smokers

Cigarette smoke, high in oxidants and free radicals, causes lipid peroxidation due to increased oxidative stress by cigarette smoke. Lipid peroxidation is the free radical-mediated oxidation of membrane polyunsaturated lipids preceded by a chain reaction that is modulated by pro-oxidants and antioxidants. Tocopherol, the principal lipid-soluble chain-breaking abtioxidant in plasma and on the membrane of the tissues, acts as a predominant antioxidant in the low-density improve antioxidant status and protect smokers from oxidative damage. Current evidance of tocopherol status and supplementation smokers is illustrated.