US government scientists realize the important role that nutrition plays in the health of the eyes.
Cataracts are caused by an accumulation of free radicals that cloud the lens of the eye through a process called oxidation. Antioxidants, these researchers agree, “are compounds in foods that help maintain healthy cells and tissues in the eye and other organs.” Prime sources of antioxidants include: leafy greens, eggs, blueberries, and bilberries.
In a study of almost 500 middle aged and older women, it was discovered that those who consumed more riboflavin, folate, beta carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamins C and E were less likely to suffer from cataract symptoms than did those who consumes the least amounts of these nutrients.
Another interesting fact that may affect your daily supplement regimen? Women who took vitamin C supplements regularly over the previous decade were 64% less likely to have
Moreover, those who used vitamin C supplements for 10 or more years were 64 percent less likely to have opacity within the eyes than counterparts who did not take vitamin C.
Source: USDA Agricultural Research Service
Learn more about how to prevent cataracts with our self-help recommendations at our website.