Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin C (mixed)
For the health condition: Cataracts
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Vitamin C has been investigated for its potential role in supporting or preventing cataracts, primarily due to its antioxidant properties. The lens of the eye is susceptible to oxidative damage, which is thought to play a key role in cataract formation. Vitamin C, a potent water-soluble antioxidant, is present in high concentrations in the lens and aqueous humor, suggesting it may help protect ocular tissues from oxidative stress.
Observational studies have generally found that higher dietary intake or blood levels of vitamin C are associated with a lower risk of cataract development. For example, some large cohort studies report a modestly reduced risk of cataract among individuals with higher vitamin C intake. However, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have provided inconsistent results. Some RCTs did not find significant benefits of vitamin C supplementation in preventing or slowing cataract progression, while others showed only slight or no effect.
Overall, while there is a scientific rationale and some epidemiological evidence supporting the use of vitamin C for cataract prevention, high-quality clinical trial data confirming its effectiveness are limited. The evidence base is therefore rated as modest (2/5), with observational support but insufficient proof from intervention trials to recommend vitamin C supplementation specifically for cataracts.
Other health conditions supported by Vitamin C (mixed)
AcneAge Spots
Aging (prevention)
Allergies (respiratory)
Anemia
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Arthritis
Asthma
Bleeding (external)
Bleeding (internal)
Boils
Broken Bones
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Bruises (prevention)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Canker Sores
Capillary Weakness
Cardiovascular Disease
Cataracts
Cholesterol (high)