The following table is a partial list of the substances in cigarette smoke. Delivers oxygen and nutrients to cells and carries away carbon dioxide and waste. Hinders circulation due to plaque deposits and narrowing of blood vessels Digestive tract Breaks food down into absorbable components to feed the body and eliminates waste. When these systems are not able to perform normally, bone is unable to rebuild itself. The formation of bone is particularly influenced by physical exercise and hormonal activity, both of which are adversely affected by cigarette smoking.
Many smokers have less physical endurance than nonsmokers, mainly due to decreased lung function.
Cigarette smoking reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood and increases the level of harmful substances, such as carbon monoxide. This, combined with the effects of smoking on the heart and blood vessels, can limit the benefits from physical activity. In men and women, cigarette smoking is known to influence hormone function. Smoking increases estrogen loss in women who are perimenopausal or postmenopausal. This can result in a loss of bone density and lead to osteoporosis.