CATARACTS
Description
Body System
[1] Jacques PF, Chylack LT Jr. Epidemiologic evidence of a role for the antioxidant vitamins and carotenoids in cataract prevention. Am J Clin Nutr. 1991 Jan;53(1 Suppl):352S-355S.
[2] Zhao LQ, Li LM, Zhu H, The Epidemiological Evidence-Based Eye Disease Study Research Group EY. The effect of multivitamin/mineral supplements on age-related cataracts: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients. 2014 Feb 28;6(3):931-49.
[3] Christen WG, Glynn RJ, Manson JE, MacFadyen J, Bubes V, Schvartz M, Buring JE, Sesso HD, Gaziano JM. Effects of multivitamin supplement on cataract and age-related macular degeneration in a randomized trial of male physicians. Ophthalmology. 2014 Feb;121(2):525-34.
[4] Kuzniarz M, Mitchell P, Cumming RG, Flood VM. Use of vitamin supplements and cataract: the Blue Mountains Eye Study. Am J Ophthalmol. 2001 Jul;132(1):19-26.
[5] Seddon JM, Christen WG, Manson JE, LaMotte FS, Glynn RJ, Buring JE, Hennekens CH. The use of vitamin supplements and the risk of cataract among US male physicians. Am J Public Health. 1994 May;84(5):788-92.
[6] Valero MP, Fletcher AE, De Stavola BL, Vioque J, Alepuz VC. Vitamin C is associated with reduced risk of cataract in a Mediterranean population. J Nutr. 2002 Jun;132(6):1299-306.
[7] Wei L, Liang G, Cai C, Lv J. Association of vitamin C with the risk of age-related cataract: a meta-analysis. Acta Ophthalmol. 2016 May;94(3):e170-6.
[8] Ravindran RD, Vashist P, Gupta SK, Young IS, Maraini G, Camparini M, Jayanthi R, John N, Fitzpatrick KE, Chakravarthy U, Ravilla TD, Fletcher AE. Inverse association of vitamin C with cataract in older people in India. Ophthalmology. 2011 Oct;118(10):1958-1965.e2.
[9] Tessier F, Moreaux V, Birlouez-Aragon I, Junes P, Mondon H. Decrease in vitamin C concentration in human lenses during cataract progression. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 1998;68(5):309-15.
[10] Giblin FJ. Glutathione: a vital lens antioxidant. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther. 2000 Apr;16(2):121-35.
[11] Pau H, Graf P, Sies H. Glutathione levels in human lens: regional distribution in different forms of cataract. Exp Eye Res. 1990 Jan;50(1):17-20.
[12] Reddy VN, Giblin FJ. Metabolism and function of glutathione in the lens. Ciba Found Symp. 1984;106:65-87.
[13] Li Y, Liu YZ, Shi JM, Jia SB. Alpha lipoic acid protects lens from H(2)O(2)-induced cataract by inhibiting apoptosis of lens epithelial cells and inducing activation of anti-oxidative enzymes. Asian Pac J Trop Med. 2013 Jul;6(7):548-51.
[14] Head KA. Natural therapies for ocular disorders, part two: cataracts and glaucoma. Altern Med Rev. 2001 Apr;6(2):141-66.
[15] Kan E, Kiliçkan E, Ayar A, Çolak R. Effects of two antioxidants; α-lipoic acid and fisetin against diabetic cataract in mice. Int Ophthalmol. 2015 Feb;35(1):115-20.
[16] Maitra I, Serbinova E, Tritschler HJ, Packer L. Stereospecific effects of R-lipoic acid on buthionine sulfoximine-induced cataract formation in newborn rats. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 1996 Apr 16;221(2):422-9.
[17] Williams DL. Effect of Oral Alpha Lipoic Acid in Preventing the Genesis of Canine Diabetic Cataract: A Preliminary Study. Vet Sci. 2017;4(1):18. Published 2017 Mar 16.
[18] Rochette L, Ghibu S, Muresan A, Vergely C. Alpha-lipoic acid: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential in diabetes. Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 2015 Dec;93(12):1021-7.
[19] Wang A, Han J, Jiang Y, Zhang D. Association of vitamin A and β-carotene with risk for age-related cataract: a meta-analysis. Nutrition. 2014 Oct;30(10):1113-21.
[20] Choi JH, Lee E, Heo YR. The Association between Dietary Vitamin A and C Intakes and Cataract: Data from Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2012. Clin Nutr Res. 2020 Jul 24;9(3):163-170.
[21] Knekt P, Heliövaara M, Rissanen A, Aromaa A, Aaran RK. Serum antioxidant vitamins and risk of cataract. BMJ. 1992 Dec 5;305(6866):1392-4.
[22] Nourmohammadi I, Modarress M, Khanaki K, Shaabani M. Association of serum alpha-tocopherol, retinol and ascorbic acid with the risk of cataract development. Ann Nutr Metab. 2008;52(4):296-8.
[23] Jacques PF. The potential preventive effects of vitamins for cataract and age-related macular degeneration. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 1999 May;69(3):198-205.
[24] Zhang Y, Jiang W, Xie Z, Wu W, Zhang D. Vitamin E and risk of age-related cataract: a meta-analysis. Public Health Nutr. 2015 Oct;18(15):2804-14.
[25] Kaur A, Gupta V, Christopher AF, Malik MA, Bansal P. Nutraceuticals in prevention of cataract - An evidence based approach. Saudi J Ophthalmol. 2017;31(1):30-37.
[26] Christen WG, Liu S, Glynn RJ, Gaziano JM, Buring JE. Dietary carotenoids, vitamins C and E, and risk of cataract in women: a prospective study. Arch Ophthalmol. 2008 Jan;126(1):102-9.
[27] Robertson JM, Donner AP, Trevithick JR. Vitamin E intake and risk of cataracts in humans. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1989;570:372-82.
[28] Yoshida M, Kimura H, Kyuki K, Ito M. Combined effect of vitamin E and insulin on cataracts of diabetic rats fed a high cholesterol diet. Biol Pharm Bull. 2004 Mar;27(3):338-44.
[29] Varma SD, Devamanoharan PS, Morris SM. Prevention of cataracts by nutritional and metabolic antioxidants. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 1995 Jan;35(1-2):111-29.
[30] Dawczynski J, Winnefeld K, Königsdörffer E, Augsten R, Blum M, Strobel J. Selen und Katarakt--Risikofaktor oder sinnvolle Nahrungsergänzung? [Selenium and cataract--risk factor or useful dietary supplement?]. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd. 2006 Aug;223(8):675-80. German.
[31] Zhu X, Lu Y. Selenium supplementation can slow the development of naphthalene cataract. Curr Eye Res. 2012 Mar;37(3):163-9.
[32] Flohé L. Selenium, selenoproteins and vision. Dev Ophthalmol. 2005;38:89-102.
[33] Post M, Lubiński W, Lubiński J, Krzystolik K, Baszuk P, Muszyńska M, Marciniak W. Serum selenium levels are associated with age-related cataract. Ann Agric Environ Med. 2018 Sep 25;25(3):443-448.
[34] Bartlett H, Eperjesi F. An ideal ocular nutritional supplement? Ophthalmic Physiol Opt. 2004 Jul;24(4):339-49.
[35] Cumming RG, Mitchell P, Smith W. Diet and cataract: the blue mountains eye study. Ophthalmology. 2000 Mar 1;107(3):450-6.
[36] Townend BS, Townend ME, Flood V, Burlutsky G, Rochtchina E, Wang JJ, Mitchell P. Dietary macronutrient intake and five-year incident cataract: the Blue Mountains Eye Study. American journal of ophthalmology. 2007 Jun 1;143(6):932-9.
[37] Lu M, Cho E, Taylor A, Hankinson SE, Willett WC, Jacques PF. Prospective study of dietary fat and risk of cataract extraction among US women. American journal of epidemiology. 2005 May 15;161(10):948-59.
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[39] Aly EM, Ali MA. Effects of bilberry on deoxyribonucleic acid damage and oxidant-antioxidant balance in the lens, induced by ultraviolet radiation. The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences: MJMS. 2014 Jan;21(1):11.
1. Multivitamins: Multivitamins, containing essential nutrients like vitamin C and E, support overall eye health by providing antioxidants that help reduce the risk of cataract formation.
2. Vitamin C: Vitamin C helps prevent cataracts by increasing its concentration in the eye fluid, protecting the lens from oxidative stress and promoting overall eye health.
3. Glutathione: Glutathione, a key antioxidant, plays a pivotal role in preventing cataracts by combating oxidative stress in the eye. A deficiency may increase the risk of cataract development.
4. Alpha Lipoic Acid: Alpha-lipoic acid protects the eye lenses from oxidative damage caused by substances like hydrogen peroxide. It prevents cell death, activates protective enzymes, and supports glutathione processing, keeping the lenses healthy.
5. Vitamin A: Vitamin A supports the health of eye surface tissues and promotes good vision. Low levels may increase the risk of cataracts, making it essential for maintaining healthy eyesight.
6. Methylsulfonylmethane [MSM]: Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) provides sulfur, essential for vision, by enhancing cellular permeability and improving nutrient absorption and circulation within the eye.
7. Vitamin E: Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting lens cells from oxidative stress. Low levels of vitamin E may increase the risk of cataract development.
8. Selenium: Selenium works with vitamin E to prevent oxidative stress-induced cell death in the protective outer layer of the eye's lenses, helping to maintain lens health.
9. Omega 3: Omega-3 fatty acids support eye health by reducing inflammation and maintaining cell membrane integrity, potentially lowering the risk of cataracts.
1. Bilberry Extract: Bilberry contains anthocyanosides, antioxidants that protect the eyes from oxidative damage, helping reduce the risk of cataract development by combating oxidative stress in eye tissues.
No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.
No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.
Supplements
Plant Extracts
Natural Compounds
Alternative Treatments
Symptoms & Signs
Causes
Free Radical Damage to the Lens, Aging, Diabetes
Books That You May Want To Read
How Nutrients Function
Antioxidants: Antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular ailments. They safeguard DNA integrity, slow down aging processes, and support overall cellular health.
Fatty Acids: Fatty acids serve as energy sources, structural components of cell membranes, and precursors to signaling molecules. Essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, play critical roles in brain function, cardiovascular health, and inflammation regulation.
Fruit Extracts: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, fruit extracts offer numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and immune-boosting properties. They also support digestive health and contribute to overall well-being.
Minerals: Minerals are essential for various physiological functions, including bone health, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. They support overall health by ensuring proper cellular function and metabolic processes.
Other Nutrients: Other nutrients encompass a wide array of essential compounds crucial for various physiological functions. This category includes neurotransmitters and their precursors, which facilitate nerve signaling and are vital for central nervous system function. Additionally, naturally occurring structural components and biological detergents, such as phospholipids and bile salts, play critical roles in tissue repair, fat digestion, and overall bodily function. Phospholipids contribute to cell membrane integrity and fat emulsification, while bile salts are key to digesting and absorbing dietary fats. Hormones and their precursors regulate numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Furthermore, naturally occurring chemicals and metals play pivotal roles in enzymatic reactions, immune function, and overall health maintenance.
Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.
Nutrients Explained In Nutritional Guide
Podcast Episodes To Listen To
Educational Videos To Learn From
Functional Lab Tests That You Might Consider
References
Things To Do
In order to reduce the risk of cataracts, our daily diet should include the following:
whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and unprocessed meats and fish.
foods rich in vitamin C, such as bell peppers, citrus fruit, tomatoes, strawberries, cruciferous vegetables, etc.
foods rich in vitamin E, such as leafy greens, nuts and seeds, red bell peppers, asparagus, etc.
foods rich in lutein, such as leafy greens, eggs, bell peppers, parsley, nuts and seeds, etc.
foods rich in selenium, such as organ meats, seafood, whole grains, Brazil nuts, etc.
foods high in antioxidants, such as broccoli, carrots, spinach, avocados, beetroots, radish, etc.
foods high in zinc, such as red meat, shellfish, beans, nuts, etc.
foods high in vitamin A and beta-carotene, such as liver, eggs, fish, and fruit and vegetables with yellow, orange, and red pigment, etc.
anti-inflammatory foods, such as turmeric, ginger, garlic, berries, fatty fish, avocado, broccoli, mushrooms, etc.
foods low in glycemic load, which excludes refined grains, sugar, and refined carbohydrates.
Stay hydrated and drink a lot of water [preferably distilled water] and herbal teas.
Other recommendations include:
Outdoors, wear protective sunglasses and hats.
control your blood sugar levels.
Check if you are lactose intolerant.
Check for heavy metal toxicity since it can be a contributing factor to cataract formation.
Stay physically active.
get enough sleep.
reduce stress.
Use blue-light-blocking glasses when using screens.
To prevent your eyes from drying, use hydrating eye drops.
Things To Avoid
Cataract prevention and post-surgery cataract considerations should aim to avoid the following items and products:
sugar in any form, processed foods, packaged and canned goods, and foods high in carbohydrates.
fast foods because they are high in salt, carbohydrates, and sugar, and their high processing exposes you to their oxidized fat content.
alcohol, sweetened beverages, and drinks.
Desserts, candy, pastries, etc.
artificial sweeteners.
fried foods.
cooking oils that oxidize easily, such as canola, sunflower, safflower, etc.
Dairy products are high in lactose, which many people are sensitive to.
Furthermore, it is critical to apply certain changes to our lifestyle to better deal with this condition:
Avoid direct sunlight.
Watch out with antihistamines; they cause eye dryness and light sensitivity.
quit smoking.
Avoid driving at night.