More evidence for nutrients and help with the prevention of cataracts

More evidence for nutrients and help with the prevention of cataracts

Researchers from Qingdao University performed a meta-analysis of existing studies to clarify if Vitamin A and its precursor, Beta-Carotene have any ability to lower the risk of age-related cataracts. Twenty-two studies met their inclusion criteria.

People with the highest levels of beta-carotene in their blood serum were 17% less likely to develop a cataract compared to those in the lowest category and this association was deemed significant. Vitamin A reduced cataract risk by 23%. The study is published in the journal Nutrition, 2014;30(10), pages 1113 through 1121.

Some of the other eye health studies listed on our website;

Lutein boosts night-vision in drivers

Feb 15, 2013

Lutein is a natural carotenoid. It is an orangey-reddish colorful pigment that is very important for the health of the eye and ongoing good vision. Lutein helps protect the macular region and retina of the eye. A large and growing body of human research shows that Lutein can decrease the risk and incidence of age related macular degeneration, a major cause of blindness in the elderly, and can also slow down the formation of cataracts, a major cause of vision loss in the elderly. Lutein helps shield the eye from blue light, the most destructive wavelength of light to the human eye and therefore Lutein functions as a form of internal sunglasses.

Lutein is found in green leafy vegetables and in egg yolk and in fact it gives chickens their yellowish color (at low concentrations Lutein appears yellowish and at higher concentrations it is red-orange). Foods that supply Lutein include broccoli, spinach, kale, corn, zucchini, and squash. Some multivitamins claim they contain Lutein but they usually provide a relatively small amount of 0.25 mg per