Lutein for Cataract Sufferers By Dr Alan Gaby (September 9, 2006)

Special Report By Dr Alan Gaby

Lutein for Cataract Sufferers

Supplementing with lutein improves visual function in cataract sufferers and may slow the progression of the cataracts, according to a study published in Nutrition. Cataracts are among the most common causes of visual impairment in the elderly. They are caused by progressive degeneration of the proteins that make up the lens of the eye, which eventually results in clouding of the lens. The cause of age-related cataracts is unknown.

In the new study, 15 individuals with age-related cataracts were randomly assigned to receive either 15 mg of lutein, or a placebo three times per week for up to two years.

Visual acuity improved significantly in the lutein group, whereas no change was seen in the placebo groups. In addition, sensitivity to glare improved in those taking lutein, but not in the other groups. During the study, the cataracts did not progress in four of the five people in the lutein group.  The results suggest that taking lutein improves visual acuity and reduces glare sensitivity in people with age-related cataracts, and may also help delay the progression of the cataracts.

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Alan R. Gaby, MD, an expert in nutritional therapies, testified to the White House Commission on CAM upon request in December 2001. Dr. Gaby served as a member of the Ad-Hoc Advisory Panel of the National Institutes of Health Office of Alternative Medicine. He is the author of Preventing and Reversing Osteoporosis (Prima, 1994), and co-author of The Natural Pharmacy, 2nd Edition (Healthnotes, Prima, 1999), the A?Z Guide to Drug-Herb-Vitamin Interactions (Healthnotes, Prima, 1999), Clinical Essentials Volume 1 and 2 (Healthnotes, 2000), and The Patient?s Book of Natural Healing (Prima, 1999). A former professor at Bastyr University of Natural Health Sciences, in Kenmore, WA, where he served as the Endowed Professor of Nutrition, Dr. Gaby is the Chief Medical Editor for Healthnotes, Inc.