Evidence supporting the use of: Antioxidant (unspecified)
For the health condition: Cataracts
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Antioxidants have been investigated for their potential role in preventing or slowing the progression of cataracts, primarily because oxidative stress is considered a major factor in cataract formation. The lens of the eye is particularly susceptible to oxidative damage due to its exposure to light and high oxygen levels. Observational studies have found associations between higher dietary intake of antioxidants (such as vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, and zeaxanthin) and a reduced risk of cataract development. However, large, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), such as those conducted by the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and others, have not consistently demonstrated that antioxidant supplementation significantly reduces the risk or progression of cataracts. For example, AREDS found no significant benefit of high-dose antioxidant supplements in slowing cataract progression, though some subgroup analyses suggested potential modest benefits. Overall, while there is a scientific rationale and some epidemiological support for the use of antioxidants in cataract prevention, robust clinical evidence is lacking, and major ophthalmological guidelines do not recommend antioxidant supplementation specifically for cataract treatment. Instead, a balanced diet rich in antioxidants from fruits and vegetables is generally encouraged for overall eye health. Therefore, the use of unspecified antioxidants for cataract prevention or treatment is based on limited scientific evidence, and supplementation is not routinely recommended.
Other health conditions supported by Antioxidant (unspecified)
Age SpotsAging (prevention)
Alzheimer's Disease
Arteriosclerosis
Arthritis
Asthma
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cataracts
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)
Cholesterol (high)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder
Circulation (poor)
Circulation (to the brain)
Depression
Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy
Fatty Liver Disease
Free Radical Damage
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Heart (weakness)
Hypertension
Inflammation
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders
Liver Detoxification
Lupus
Macular Degeneration
Memory and Brain Function
Metabolic Syndrome
Migraine
Parkinson's Disease
Radiation Sickness
Wrinkles