Vitamin E Slows Cataracts
Taking vitamin E helps keep cataracts away, according to new research by Paul Jacques, DSc, at the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University.
Recently, Dr. Jacques found that a group of women who reported taking vitamin E for 10 or more years showed significantly less progression of cataracts. Women who had higher intakes of riboflavin and thiamin also showed decreased cataract progression.
“Our results, “says Jacques, “suggest that vitamin supplementation, particularly long-term use of vitamin E, may slow down cataract development.”
On the other hand, eating the wrong type fat promoted cataracts. Omega-6 polyunsaturated fats in sunflower, safflower, corn and soybean oils and omega-3s in canola, flaxseed and soybean oils seemed to promote the progression of cataracts.
However, eating omega-3 fatty acids in fish appeared to help prevent cataract formation. In previous research, Jacques found vitamin C supplements delayed cataracts.
About 20 million Americans have age-related cataracts, an opacity of the lens of the eye, usually corrected by surgery. Jacques hopes to find supplements and nutrients that delay progression of cataracts and the need for surgery. The most promising to date: vitamin E.
