Dr. Grossman’s Blog

image via nei.nih.gov

Cataracts are not inevitable parts of aging. They can be prevented through proper nutrition and the supplementation of certain nutrients that are vital to the proper functioning of the eyes.

One of these important compounds is glutathione which helps prevent the free radical damage that can lead to cataract formation. Studies have shown that people who have cataracts have 80% less of the glutathione in their eyes than they need.

Natural sources of glutathione include eggs, broccoli, avocados, garlic, onions and cauliflower. Learn more about certain supplements that can really help you bring up your levels and ward off cataracts.

For other ways to prevent and treat cataracts naturally, visit our website.

Researchers have discovered a link between the popular anti-depression herb St. John’s wort and the development of cataracts.

Published in Current Eye Research, the study describes the results of questionnaires sent to over 31,000 people over age 40 about cataracts and their use of herbal remedies and treatments over the prior year. Those who reported that they had cataracts were 59% more likely to also report they had used St. John’s Wort.  Researchers do make clear that this questionnaire format has limits and further study is necessary to determine whether the correlation is dose dependent and learn more about the timing of taking the supplement and developing the cataract.

In earlier research, Hypericin, an active ingredient in St. John’s wort, was linked with crystallization of the eye’s lenses. But, to date, the association had not been evaluated in humans.

St. John’s wort is a European weed whose extracts have been used for the treatment of mental disorders, particularly depression. It is usually taken as an herbal tea or tablet.

Source: http://news.injuryboard.com/study-links-st-johns-wort-to-cataracts.aspx?googleid=274170

For more research on cataracts causes, treatments, and cures, please visit our website.