Because the eye is subjected to sunlight, it is at increased risk for age related changes due to oxidation and stress. Age related macular degeneration and age related increases in lens opacity have been common areas of research in regards to antioxidant and nutrient therapy.
A Tufts University research project examined the effect of dietary intake of vitamins and minerals on lens opacity in women age 52-74 years. Women enrolled in the Nurse's Health Study completed food and diet questionnaires and their lenses were examined for thickness and opacities at baseline and at completion of the study.
The study showed that there was an inverse correlation between dietary intake of thiamin and riboflavin, Vitamins B1 and B2, and lens opacification. There was also an inverse correlation between the length of Vitamin E supplementation and lens opacification.
The authors concluded that diets high in thiamin and riboflavin might reduce the progression of lens opacification that is common in increasing age. Long-term supplementation with Vitamin E may also be preventative.
Posted by Kristopher Foster on January 27, 2006 10:26 AM
