Proper nutrition appears to be a major factor in avoiding cataracts for the elderly. Currently, 45% of persons older than 75 get cataracts. Also, cataract removal is the most commonly performed surgical procedure among older people. But according to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, consuming enough vitamin C for at least 10 years significantly reduced one type of cataract in women.

500 Boston Nurses Examined Since 1976

These results stem from the Nurse's Health Study, which has been following the diet and health of 500 Boston-area nurses since 1976. Participants keep track of their diets and receive eye exams for different types of cataracts.

Up to a 57% Lowered Risk

The study found significant interaction between age, vitamin C intake, and the prevalence of cataracts. For women younger than 60, proper vitamin C levels in the diet yielded a 57% lower risk of developing "cortical opacities," which can lead to cataracts.

In addition, the incidence of some cataracts was considerably lower in the women who had never smoked and who had high intakes of folate and carotenoids.

Back to Spotlight on Health Archive