A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition suggests that diet can help prevent cataracts. Specifically, dark green vegetables like spinach, green broccoli, and kale contain the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which can protect the eyes from damage by ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, thereby helping to avoid cataracts.
Cataracts are one of the most common eye diseases and a frequent problem for older adults. In addition to factors like genetics and lifestyle, scientists believe that exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun is also one of the main causes of cataracts.
A medical study led by researcher Joshua Bomser at Ohio State University found that eating more dark green vegetables may help protect the eyes from sun damage and reduce the risk of developing cataracts.
Researchers have, for the first time, experimentally demonstrated that the specific antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin found in some dark green vegetables can indeed play a role in preventing cataracts. The researchers believe that although we can obtain these antioxidants through supplements, their effectiveness is not as great as consuming them through a daily diet.