Evidence supporting the use of: Anthocyanin
For the health condition: Cataracts
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Anthocyanins are a class of flavonoid pigments found in many fruits and vegetables, particularly in berries and red, blue, or purple plant foods. Their use in supporting or treating cataracts is primarily supported by preclinical scientific evidence rather than established clinical practice or traditional medicine. Laboratory studies and some animal experiments suggest that anthocyanins possess antioxidant properties that may help protect lens cells from oxidative stress, a major contributing factor in cataract formation. For example, research in diabetic rat models has shown that anthocyanin-rich extracts can reduce oxidative damage in the lens and slow cataract progression (Kim et al., 2010). In vitro studies also demonstrate that anthocyanins can scavenge free radicals and upregulate antioxidant enzymes in ocular tissues. However, there is a lack of robust human clinical trials directly evaluating the effect of anthocyanin supplementation on cataract prevention or treatment. Most of the current evidence is limited to laboratory and animal studies, and clinical recommendations cannot be made based on this data alone. Thus, while the mechanistic rationale is scientifically plausible, and there is some preclinical validation, the evidence is currently weak (rated 2/5) and insufficient for strong recommendations in humans. More rigorous clinical trials are necessary to confirm any protective or therapeutic effects of anthocyanins on cataract development or progression.
Other health conditions supported by Anthocyanin
Aging (prevention)Alzheimer's Disease
Arteriosclerosis
Arthritis
Blood Clots (prevention of)
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cataracts
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Circulation (to the brain)
Colitis
Dementia
Depression
Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy
Edema
Eye Problems
Fatty Liver Disease
Free Radical Damage
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Glaucoma
Heart (weakness)
Hypertension
Inflammation
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders
Macular Degeneration
Memory and Brain Function
Metabolic Syndrome
Strokes
Varicose Veins