10 March 2014
A long-term daily use of multivitamin as well as vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene supplements may significantly lower the risk of developing cataract in men.
The randomized controlled trial documented cases of cataract among 14,641 male physicians age 50 and older who took a common daily multivitamin, as well as vitamin C, vitamin E and beta carotene supplements, or a placebo for 14 years (1). The study results showed that the risk of developing cataract was reduced by 9% in the group who supplemented compared to the placebo group. This risk was even lower, at 13%, for nuclear cataract, the most common variety of cataract associated with the aging process.
The researchers commented that even a modest 10% reduction in cataract risk would nonetheless have a large public health impact, given that an estimated 10 million adults in the United States have impaired vision due to cataract. Regarding another common eye disease, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends the use of antioxidant vitamin and mineral supplements, including high daily doses of vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, zinc and copper only for patients who have intermediate or advanced AMD (2). More recent results suggest lutein and zeaxanthin may be an appropriate substitution for beta-carotene in the formulation (3).
15 August 2014
While human milk is the preferred source of most nutrients for infants during the first year, there has been concern about the adequacy of human milk in providing vitamin D.
8 September 2015
According to a new US study greater adherence to the micronutrient-rich Mediterranean diet is associated with longer telomeres potentially promoting health and longevity.
8 November 2011
According to a new US study, a low vitamin D status seems not to increase the risk of developing acute exacerbations in patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
