Penn Herb Wellness Guide

Cataracts

Keep your lenses clear by limiting the damage that causes cataracts, a condition that produces cloudiness in the eyes. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

SupplementAmountWhy
Lutein
15 mg three times per week2 stars[2 stars]
People with high intakes of the carotenoid lutein have been reported to be at a low risk for cataracts.
Vitamin B2
3 mg daily with 40 mg daily vitamin B32 stars[2 stars]
Vitamin B2 is needed to protect glutathione, an important antioxidant in the eye. In one study, supplementing with vitamin B2 prevented cataracts in people who were deficient.
Beta-Carotene
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
People who eat fruits and vegetables rich in beta-carotene have a lower risk of developing cataracts.
Bilberry
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Bilberry is high in flavonoids called anthocyanosides, which may protect both the lens and retina from oxidative damage and reduce the risk of cataracts.
Quercetin
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
The flavonoid quercetin may help protect against cataracts by blocking sorbitol accumulation in the eye.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
40 mg daily with 3 mg daily vitamin B21 star[1 star]
Vitamin B3 is needed to protect glutathione, an important antioxidant in the eye.
Vitamin C
500 to 1,000 mg daily1 star[1 star]
Supplementing with vitamin C, an important nutrient for healthy vision, has been linked with lower risk of developing cataracts.
Vitamin E
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Low blood levels of vitamin E have been linked to increased risk of forming cataracts. Vitamin E supplements have been reported to protect against cataracts.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.