Research published in the Archives of Ophthalmology (January 2008; Volume 126, Issue 1, Pages 102–109) examined the dietary habits of more than 35,000 women over a period of ten years. The study evaluated whether intake of specific antioxidants was associated with the risk of developing cataracts.
The researchers found that higher consumption of two carotenoids—lutein and zeaxanthin—was associated with a reduced risk of cataracts. Women with the highest intake of these carotenoids experienced an 18% lower risk compared to those with lower intake. A high intake of vitamin E was also associated with a reduced risk, showing a 14% decrease in cataract development.
