A new study reported in the May 2000 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology suggests that very high doses of supplemental vitamin C cannot reverse established blood vessel abnormalities in smokers.
Cigarette smoking increases the risk of heart disease in a number of ways.
One aspect of arterial function that worsens with smoking is dilation or widening of the arteries when blood flow through them is increased. This lack of arterial dilation could lead to diminished blood flow to the heart. If it continues, a heart attack might result. This is an important early factor in the development of cardiac problems. Some smokers hope that by taking extra vitamin C they can reduce their risk of smoking-related heart trouble.