Abstract
It is now accepted that lipid peroxidation is involved in the pathogenesis of various disorders and diseases and that vitamin E acts as a potent antioxidant against lipid peroxidation. However, the prospective randomized clinical trials have not shown consistently the beneficial effects of vitamin E on the prevention of diseases. To the contrary, meta-analysis of these studies suggests vitamin E supplementation at high doses may increase mortality. The results of these studies and possible problems are discussed. In order to provide sound scientific evidence for the effects of vitamin E, it is essential to carry out carefully-planned intervention study and to assess the effects continuously with appropriate biomarkers, not by single end point.
