Serum tocopherol levels and vitamin E intake are associated with lung function in the normative aging study

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Nutritional Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Conflicting results exist regarding the relationship between vitamin E and lung function.
• This study investigates vitamin E intake and serum tocopherol levels in relation to lung function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of vitamin E intake and serum tocopherol isoforms on lung function.
• To analyze cross-sectional data from 580 men in the Normative Aging Study.

Main Methods:

• Used regression models to assess associations between serum tocopherol levels, vitamin E intake, and lung function parameters.
• Measured vitamin E intake via food frequency questionnaire and serum tocopherol isoforms (gamma, alpha, delta) using high-performance liquid chromatography.

Main Results:

• Serum gamma-tocopherol showed an inverse association with forced vital capacity (FVC).
• Lower serum delta-tocopherol levels were observed in participants with more severe COPD and higher smoking levels.
• Vitamin E intake and supplement use were positively associated with FEV1 and FVC.

Conclusions:

• Dietary vitamin E intake is positively associated with lung function.
• Elevated serum gamma-tocopherol levels are inversely related to lung function.
• Vitamin E supplementation impacts serum tocopherol profiles.