The "Ideal Eye Formula"

The aim of this major research review was to identify antioxidants most suitable for including in an ideal eye formula useful for people with a family history of glaucoma, cataract, or age-related macular degeneration. Also for individuals whose lifestyle exposes them to greater risk of these eye diseases due to smoking, poor nutrition, and high levels of sun exposure. It would also be suitable for people with early stages of age-related eye disease.

B-Complex vitamins have been linked to a reduction in the risk of cataract and vitamin C has ability to protect from cataract. Vitamin E has evidence of decreasing ocular disease. Improved vision and eye function in patients with age-related macular degeneration have been noted with both Lutein and Zeaxanthin supplements. Selenium reduced the risk of cataract and activates Glutathione related enzymes, which protect the eye tissue cells from free radical damage. The study is published in the July 2004 issue of the journal Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics.

Commentary by Jerry Hickey, R.Ph

Zinc, Beta-Carotene, Lycopene, NAC, and Bilberry are also essential to the perfect eye formula in my opinion. Ginkgo Biloba and Fenugreek have a place in glaucoma. Magnesium, Taurine, GliSODin SOD, Pyridoxamine, L-Carnosine, and small amounts of Copper and Manganese are very valuable.

Sulforaphane Inhibits Radiation Induced Skin Cancer

Ultraviolet radiation promotes skin cancer. Ultraviolet radiation stimulates activity of a chemical known as activator protein-1 in the skin. This activator protein-1 is a strong promoter of skin cancer. Exposing human keratin skin cells to ultraviolet radiation triggered a large increase in activator protein-1 activity. Sulforaphane prevented the increased activity of this cancer causing activator protein-1 by blocking its attachment to the skin cells. The study appears in the November 2004 issue of the journal Molecular Carcinogenesis.