New research points to Selenium as a means to help women prevent cataract formation if they supplement with this mineral at the beginning of menopause.
Data from over 7500 people who received an ophthalmic exam while participating in the NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) from 2001-2008 was reviewed. If a participant underwent ophthalmic surgery for cataracts, they were defined as having cataracts. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship between cataracts and Selenium, Copper, Zinc and Iron.
Participants who were determined to have cataracts all had significantly lower intakes of trace Minerals; Iron (13.948 vs 14.812 mg ), Zinc (10.269 vs 11.114 mg), Copper (1.151 vs 1.261 mg) and Selenium (85.698 vs 98.267 mcq). Researchers determined that Selenium deserved the highest attention. After adjusting the findings for age and gender this association between Selenium intake and cataract formation was only seen in women 65-75 years of age.
Researchers actually concluded that maintaining a daily intake of Selenium at higher levels was helpful for cataract prevention and that increasing the Selenium intake in women between the ages of 65 – 75 years of age could contribute to the prevention of age-related cataract formation.
The formation of cataracts has been established a one of the leading causes of visual impairment and blindness worldwide. This reduces the quality of life for many people and also represents a significant socioeconomic burden.
The accumulation of oxidative damage within the lens of the eye is a significant cause of cataract development which results in the aggregation of proteins and the death of epithelial cells. Of course, factors like obesity, age and smoking are increased risk factors for cataract development. Treatment for cataract removal currently consists of lens replacement surgery and phacoemulsification. There are risks however associated with surgery for cataracts which increases the interest in finding treatment methods that prevent cataract formation.
Further Randomized Controlled Trials are needed.
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