Author
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Johnson, Elizabeth |
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Submitted to: Current Topics in Nutraceutical Research
Publication Type: Review Article Publication Acceptance Date: 10/31/2005 Publication Date: 12/1/2005 Citation: Johnson, E. 2005. Nutritional supplementation, cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. 3(4):219-230. . Current Topics in Nutraceutical Research . Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Age-related cataract and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are the major causes of visual impairment and blindness in the aging population. Specific nutrients in the diet that are thought to be important in the prevention of these diseases are vitamins C and E, the carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, zinc, and omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, e.g. docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Given that the lens and retina suffer oxidative damage, these nutrients are thought to be protective through their role as antioxidants. Additionally, lutein and zeaxanthin may provide protection as filters against light damage, i.e. absorbers of blue light. DHA may affect membrane composition of the lens and retina, which could alter membrane structure and function. The focus of this review is to evaluate the evidence for nutritional supplementation in cataract and AMD prevention. |
