More BrandsMaintaining healthy vision in middle and old age is a process that requires a diet rich in antioxidants, among other things. Cataracts, for example, are among the most common vision problems associated with ageing. According to a study by Swedish researchers from the Karolinska Institute, older women can reduce this risk by ensuring that colourful fruits and vegetables are a prominent part of their diets, thus increasing their intake of antioxidants, All About Vision reports.
The study took around seven years and involved more than 30,000 women aged over 49. The researchers observed the subjects for signs of cataract development and collected dietary data through questionnaires. The research team established that women with the highest antioxidant intake reduced their risk of developing cataracts by about 13% compared to the group with the lowest intake. The number of cases in the first group was 745 versus 953 in the second group. The researchers also found that women with higher antioxidant consumption were generally better educated and less likely to be smokers.
Vitamins C and E are well-known antioxidants, as are plant flavonoids such as lycopene. However, the Swedish team did not focus on single antioxidants, using instead a measure of the foods’ total antioxidant value. Their measure took into account the combined effect of the nutrients. Among the foods with high antioxidant content are oranges and whole grain, but the list also includes coffee, tea and red wine. Overall, the study corroborates previous findings on the subject, namely that antioxidant intake could offer protection against the development of cataracts.
