Oxidative Stress and Eye Health

LONDONWhile oxidative stress appears linked to progression of visual impairment conditions, research is still developing regarding whether antioxidant consumption could fight diseases such as cataract and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (Ophthalmic Res. 2010;44:191-198. DOI: 10.1159/000316476). A review out of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine noted cataract and AMD are strongly age-related, and the etiology is connected with accumulated cellular damage from oxidative stress from reactive oxygen species. The lens and retina have inherent antioxidant defenses supported by vitamins C and E, zinc and lutein; at this point, there is mixed evidence from epidemiological studies on the association between the antioxidant compounds and AMD or cataract progression. The review noted positive evidence is emerging about antioxidant levels from populations that are less well-nourished than those previously conducted in Western populations.