You can prevent cataracts now - Ask the experts: answers to your questions from the leaders in natural medicine - Brief Article

Natural Health, August, 2003 by Virender Sodhi

Is there a natural way to prevent cataracts?

VIRENDER SODHI, M.D., N.D., REPLIES: Yes, and now is the time to start, since a cataract (cloudiness in the lens of your eye) takes years to develop. Antioxidant supplements and foods protect your eyes.

Unstable, damaging molecules called free radicals cause proteins in the lens to clump together, forming opaque patches. But antioxidants from supplements and foods can quench free radicals. Many studies show that the antioxidants vitamin E, vitamin C, selenium, and carotenoids help prevent cataracts. Take 600 to 800 IU of natural vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol) daily with food. Also take 1,500 mg of vitamin C, 200 mcg of selenium, and 25,000 IU of natural carotenoids daily in divided doses with meals. This high dose of vitamin C may cause diarrhea; reduce your dose if that occurs. Also, eat at least two servings of dark red, orange, yellow, blue, or purple fruits and vegetables every day. They have high levels of antioxidants and contain other substances, like enzymes, that help the antioxidants work properly. Studies show that consuming a variety of these foods protects against cataracts.

VIRENDER SODHI, M.D., N.D., is an Ayurvedic physician and a naturopath. He runs the Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Medical Clinic in Bellevue, Wash., and lectures in the United States and abroad. He is currently working on a book about Ayurvedic medicine.