Vitamins for the prevention of cataracts and glaucoma

Vitamins for the prevention of cataracts and glaucomas: Detailed guidance

Chapter 1: Cataract and Glaucoma: Basic concepts and risk factors

1. 1. Cataract: clouding of the lens
   • 1. 1. Definition: Cataract is a progressive clouding of the lens of the eye, which leads to a deterioration in vision. The lens, usually a transparent lens, focuses light on the retina, providing a clear image. In cataract, the lens becomes cloudy, scattering light and causing blurred vision.
   • 1. 2. Cataract types:
     • Nuclear cataracts: Clouding occurs in the center of the lens (nucleus). Often leads to myopia in the early stages.
     • Cortical cataracts: Clouding begins on the periphery of the lens (bark) in the form of wedge -shaped areas, which gradually spread to the center.
     • Subkapapsular rear cataract: Clouding develops on the back of the lens, under the capsule. Often quickly progresses and causes vision problems near and sensitivity to light.
     • Congenital cataracts: Cataract is present at birth or develops in the first months of life. It can be caused by genetic factors, infections during pregnancy or other diseases.
     • Traumatic cataracts: It develops after the eye injury.
   • 1. 3. Risk factors for cataract development:
     • Age: The most common risk factor. Cataract usually develops with age, especially after 60 years.
     • Ultraviolet (UV) radiation: The prolonged exposure to sunlight without eye protection increases the risk of cataracts.
     • Smoking: Smoking is associated with an increased risk of cataract development.
     • Diabetes: People with diabetes have a higher risk of cataracts.
     • Some drugs: Long -term use of corticosteroids can increase the risk of cataracts.
     • Eye injuries: Eye injuries can lead to cataract development.
     • Heredity: The presence of cataracts in a family history increases the risk of the development of the disease.
     • Obesity: Studies show the relationship between obesity and an increased risk of cataract development.
     • High blood pressure: Hypertension can also be a risk factor.
     • Radiation: The impact of ionizing radiation.
   • 1. 4. Symptoms of cataracts:
     • Blurred or foggy vision.
     • Sensitivity to light and glare.
     • Difficulties in reading or driving, especially at night.
     • Dangling in the eyes.
     • Changes in the perception of color.
     • The need for more vivid lighting for reading.
     • Frequent change of glasses or contact lenses.
2. 2. Glaucoma: Damage to the optic nerve
   • 1. 1. Definition: Glaucoma is a group of diseases characterized by progressive damage to the optic nerve, which connects the eyes to the brain. Damage to the optic nerve is often associated with increased intraocular pressure (IPD), although glaucoma can also develop with normal IOA. If it is not treated glaucoma, it can lead to irreversible loss of vision and blindness.
   • 1. 2. Types of glaucoma:
     • Open -angle glaucoma: The most common type. The angle between the cornea and the rainbow shell is open, but the drainage system of the eye (trabecular network) operates inefficiently, which leads to a gradual increase in IOA. It develops slowly and often without symptoms in the early stages.
     • Clothing glaucoma: The angle between the cornea and the rainbow shell is narrowed or closed, preventing the outflow of intraocular fluid and leading to a sharp increase in the IOA. It can cause a sharp attack that requires immediate medical care.
     • Norma -Vocal glaucoma: Damage to the optic nerve occurs with a normal HCD. The causes of this type of glaucoma have not been fully studied, but can be associated with impaired blood supply to the optic nerve or increased sensitivity to normal HRD.
     • Secondary glaucoma: It develops as a result of other diseases or conditions, such as eye injuries, inflammatory diseases of the eye, diabetes, taking some drugs (for example, corticosteroids) or eye tumors.
     • Congenital glaucoma: Glaucoma is present at birth or develops in the first years of life. It is caused by anomalies in the development of the drainage system of the eye.
   • 1. 3. Risk factors for the development of glaucoma:
     • Age: The risk of glaucoma development increases with age, especially after 40 years.
     • Family history: The presence of glaucoma in a family history significantly increases the risk of the development of the disease.
     • Breed: People of African origin have a higher risk of glaucoma and an earlier onset of the disease.
     • Increased intraocular pressure (IOD): High I STAD is the main risk factor for the development of glaucoma.
     • Thin cornea: A thin cornea can underestimate the true IOA.
     • Myopia (myopia): Myopia is associated with an increased risk of glaucoma development.
     • Diabetes: People with diabetes have a higher risk of glaucoma.
     • High blood pressure: Hypertension can also be a risk factor.
     • Cardiovascular diseases: Violation of blood supply to the optic nerve can increase the risk of glaucoma.
     • The use of corticosteroids: Long -term use of corticosteroids, especially in the form of eye drops, can increase the risk of glaucoma.
   • 1. 4. Symptoms of glaucoma:
     • Open -angle glaucoma: Often occurs without symptoms in the early stages. Gradual loss of peripheral vision (tunnel vision).
     • Clothing glaucoma:
       • Sharp attack: Severe pain in the eye, redness of the eye, blurred vision, rainbow circles around light sources, nausea, vomiting. Requires immediate medical care.
       • Chronic form: The gradual narrowing of the field of view, headaches, blurry vision.
     • Norma -Vocal glaucoma: The gradual loss of peripheral vision, despite the normal IOA.
     • General symptoms (in the late stages): Difficulties in adaptation to darkness, reduction of visual acuity, blindness.

Chapter 2: The role of vitamins and antioxidants in the health of the eyes

2. 1. The main vitamins and antioxidants for the health of the eyes:
   • 2. 1. Vitamin A (Retinol):
     • Function: It is necessary to maintain the health of the cornea, retina and other tissues of the eye. Plays an important role in the formation of rhodopsin, the pigment necessary for vision in low illumination.
     • Sources: Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, cabbage, pumpkin, liver, egg yolks, dairy products.
     • Eye benefits: Supports good vision at dusk and at night, prevents dry eyes. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to xerophthalmia (dryness of the cornea) and chicken blindness (nickthalopia).
   • 2. 2. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid):
     • Function: A powerful antioxidant protects the eye cells from damage by free radicals. Participates in the synthesis of collagen necessary to maintain the structure of the tissues of the eye.
     • Sources: Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons), berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), kiwi, pepper, broccoli, spinach.
     • Eye benefits: Reduces the risk of cataracts and age -related macular degeneration (VMD). Studies have shown that high consumption of vitamin C can slow down the progression of cataracts.
   • 2. 3. Vitamin E (Tokoferol):
     • Function: Antioxidant, protects cell membranes from damage by free radicals. It works synergically with vitamin C.
     • Sources: Vegetable oils (sunflower, corn, olive), nuts (almonds, hazelnuts), seeds (sunflower, pumpkin), avocado, spinach.
     • Eye benefits: Reduces the risk of cataracts and the VMD.
   • 2. 4. B vitamins B:
     • Function: They play an important role in the functioning of the nervous system, including the visual nerve. They participate in the metabolism of homocysteine, amino acids, the high level of which is associated with an increased risk of glaucoma development.
     • Sources:
       • Vitamin B1 (TIAMIN): Whole grains, pork, legumes, nuts.
       • Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Dairy products, eggs, meat, green vegetables, enriched grain products.
       • Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Meat, poultry, fish, peanuts, mushrooms.
       • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): Meat, poultry, fish, bananas, potatoes, chickpeas.
       • Vitamin B9 (folic acid): Green leafy vegetables, legumes, citrus fruits, enriched grain products.
       • Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): Meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, eggs, enriched products.
     • Eye benefits: Support the optic nerve health, reduce the risk of glaucoma (especially vitamins B6, B9 and B12).
   • 2. 5. Lutein and Zeaxanthin:
     • Function: Carotinoids that accumulate in the retina of the eye, especially in the makul (the central region of the retina responsible for acute vision). They act as antioxidants and filter harmful blue light.
     • Sources: Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, cabbage), yellow and orange vegetables (pepper, corn), egg yolks.
     • Eye benefits: They protect the retina from damage in blue light and free radicals, reduce the risk of developing VMD and cataracts.
   • 2. 6. Omega-3 fatty acids:
     • Function: Important fats necessary for the health of cells, including retinal cells. Have anti -inflammatory properties.
     • Sources: Fat fish (salmon, tuna, sardines, herring), linen seed, chia seeds, walnuts.
     • Eye benefits: Support the health of the retina, reduce the risk of developing VMD and dry eyes, can have a protective effect in glaucoma.
   • 2. 7. Zinc:
     • Function: The mineral necessary for the normal functioning of enzymes and maintaining the health of the retina. Helps vitamin A be transported from the liver to the retina.
     • Sources: Meat, poultry, seafood (especially oysters), nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains.
     • Eye benefits: It is necessary for the health of the retina, reduces the risk of developing the VMD.
   • 2. 8. Selenium:
     • Function: Antioxidant, works synergically with vitamin E to protect cells from damage to free radicals.
     • Sources: Brazilian nuts, seafood, meat, poultry, eggs, whole grains.
     • Eye benefits: It can reduce the risk of cataracts.
   • 2. 9. Astaxanthin:
     • Function: Powerful antioxidant, carotenoid, which has anti -inflammatory properties.
     • Sources: Microdigances Haematococcus pluvialis, salmon, shrimp, crabs, lobsters.
     • Eye benefits: Protects eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, can improve vision and reduce eye fatigue.
   • 2. 10. Bioflavonoids (vitamin p):
     • Function: Antioxidants strengthen the walls of blood vessels and improve blood circulation.
     • Sources: Citrus fruits (especially white skin), berries, onions, green tea, red wine.
     • Eye benefits: Improve the blood supply to the eyes, protect the blood vessels of the retina from damage.
3. 2. The mechanisms of action of vitamins and antioxidants:
   • Neutralization of free radicals: Many vitamins and antioxidants (vitamins C, E, Selenium, Luthein, Zeaksantin, Astaxantin) act as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals that can damage the cells of the eye. Free radicals are formed as a result of normal metabolic processes, the effects of UV radiation, environmental pollution and other factors.
   • Improving blood supply: Bioflavonoid vitamins can improve the blood supply to the eyes, ensuring the flow of the necessary nutrients and oxygen to the tissues of the eye.
   • Support for the structure of fabrics: Vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of the collagen necessary to maintain the structure of the cornea, the lens and other tissues of the eye.
   • Protection from blue light: Luthein and Zeaksantin filter harmful blue light, protecting the retina from damage.
   • Reduced inflammation: Omega-3 fatty acids and astaxantin have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the risk of eye diseases associated with inflammation.
   • Intraocial pressure regulation (IPD): Some studies show that certain nutrients, such as magnesium and vitamin C, can help regulate the IOA.

Chapter 3: Vitamins and antioxidants for cataract prevention

3. 1. Vitamin C:
   • Research: Numerous studies have shown that high consumption of vitamin C is associated with a decrease in the risk of cataract development. For example, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that women who consumed most vitamin C had a much less risk of cataracts. Another study conducted at the University of Oxford showed that taking vitamin C additives for 10 years slows down the progression of cataracts.
   • Recommendations: The recommended daily dose of vitamin C is 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men. However, for the prevention of cataracts, higher consumption, for example, 500 mg per day, may be required. It is important to consult a doctor before taking high doses of vitamin C.
   • The mechanism of action: Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting the lens of the eye from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Oxidative stress is one of the main factors contributing to the development of cataracts. In addition, vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of collagen necessary to maintain the structure of the lens.
4. 2. Vitamin E:
   • Research: Some studies have shown that high consumption of vitamin E is associated with a decrease in the risk of cataract development, especially nuclear cataracts. However, the research results are contradictory. For example, a study published in Archives of Ophthalmology showed that taking vitamin E additives for 10 years does not reduce the risk of cataracts. Other studies have shown that vitamin E can be more effective in combination with other antioxidants such as vitamin C and lutein.
   • Recommendations: The recommended daily dose of vitamin E is 15 mg. For the prevention of cataracts, higher consumption, such as 400 IU per day, may be required. It is important to consult a doctor before taking high doses of vitamin E.
   • The mechanism of action: Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting the cell membranes of the lens from damage by free radicals.
5. 3. Lutein and Zeaxanthin:
   • Research: Studies have shown that high consumption of lutein and zeaxantin is associated with a decrease in the risk of cataract development. These carotenoids accumulate in the lens of the eyes and protect it from damage in blue light and oxidative stress. The study published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology showed that people with a high level of lutein and zexantin in the blood had a significantly lower risk of cataracts.
   • Recommendations: The recommended daily dose of lutein is 10 mg, and Zeaksanthin is 2 mg. These carotenoids can be obtained from dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and cabbage. Also available are additives containing lutein and zeaxantin.
   • The mechanism of action: Luthein and Zeaksantin filter harmful blue light, which can damage the lens of the eye. They also act as antioxidants, protecting the lens from oxidative stress.
6. 4. Selenium:
   • Research: Some studies have shown that selenium can play a role in the prevention of cataracts. Selenium is a component of glutathioneperoxidase, an enzyme that protects cells from oxidative stress. A study published in British Journal of Nutrition showed that people with a high level of selenium in the blood had a lower risk of cataracts.
   • Recommendations: The recommended daily dose of selenium is 55 μg. Selenium can be obtained from Brazilian nuts, seafood, meat and whole grains.
   • The mechanism of action: Selenium is an antioxidant and component of glutathioneperoxidase, which protects the lens from oxidative stress.
7. 5. Other vitamins and antioxidants:
   • Vitamin A: It is necessary to maintain the health of the cornea and other tissues of the eye.
   • B vitamins B: They support the health of the nervous system and can play a role in the prevention of cataracts.
   • Bioflavonoids: Strengthen the walls of blood vessels and improve blood circulation in the eyes.

Chapter 4: Vitamins and antioxidants for the prevention of glaucoma

4. 1. B vitamins B:
   • Research: Some studies have shown that group B vitamins, especially vitamins B6, B9 (folic acid) and B12, can play a role in the prevention of glaucoma. These vitamins are involved in the metabolism of homocysteine, amino acids, the high level of which is associated with an increased risk of glaucoma development. The study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that people with a high level of homocysteine ​​in the blood had a higher risk of glaucoma. Another study showed that taking folic acid and vitamin B12 additives can reduce homocysteine ​​levels and reduce the risk of glaucoma.
   • Recommendations: Recommended daily doses of B vitamins B:
     • Vitamin B6: 1.3 mg
     • Vitamin B9 (folic acid): 400 mcg
     • Vitamin B12: 2.4 μg
   • The mechanism of action: Vitamins B6, B9 and B12 are involved in the metabolism of homocysteine, reducing its blood level. A high level of homocysteine ​​can damage the visual nerve and increase the risk of glaucoma.
5. 2. Vitamin C:
   • Research: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and can protect the visual nerve from damage to free radicals. Some studies have shown that high consumption of vitamin C can reduce the risk of glaucoma.
   • Recommendations: The recommended daily dose of vitamin C is 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men. For the prevention of glaucoma, higher consumption, for example, 500 mg per day, may be required. It is important to consult a doctor before taking high doses of vitamin C.
   • The mechanism of action: Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, protecting the visual nerve from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.
6. 3. Vitamin E:
   • Research: Vitamin E is also an antioxidant and can protect the visual nerve from damage. Some studies have shown that high consumption of vitamin E can reduce the risk of glaucoma.
   • Recommendations: The recommended daily dose of vitamin E is 15 mg. For the prevention of glaucoma, higher consumption, for example, 400 IU per day may be required. It is important to consult a doctor before taking high doses of vitamin E.
   • The mechanism of action: Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting cell membranes of the optic nerve from damage to free radicals.
7. 4. Omega-3 fatty acids:
   • Research: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can protect the visual nerve from damage. Some studies have shown that high consumption of omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of glaucoma.
   • Recommendations: The recommended daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids is 1-2 grams. Omega-3 fatty acids can be obtained from oily fish (salmon, tuna, sardines, herring), linen seeds, chia seeds and walnuts. Also available additives containing omega-3 fatty acids.
   • The mechanism of action: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can protect the visual nerve from damage.
8. 5. Magnesium:
   • Research: Magnesium plays an important role in maintaining the health of the nervous system and can have a protective effect in glaucoma. Some studies have shown that magnesium can improve the blood supply to the optic nerve and reduce IOA.
   • Recommendations: The recommended daily dose of magnesium is 400-420 mg for men and 310-320 mg for women. Magnesium can be obtained from green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grains.
   • The mechanism of action: Magnesium can improve the blood supply to the optic nerve and reduce CD.
9. 6. Other vitamins and antioxidants:
   • Zinc: It is necessary for the health of the retina and can have a protective effect with glaucoma.
   • Bioflavonoids: Strengthen the walls of blood vessels and improve blood circulation in the eyes.

Chapter 5: Recommendations for taking vitamins and antioxidants

5. 1. Obtaining vitamins and antioxidants from food:
   • A variety of nutrition: The best way to get the necessary vitamins and antioxidants is to eat a variety of and balanced foods rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low -fat protein and healthy fats.
   • Products rich in vitamin A: Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, cabbage, pumpkin, liver, egg yolks.
   • Products rich in vitamin C: Citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, pepper, broccoli, spinach.
   • Products rich in vitamin E: Vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, avocados, spinach.
   • Products rich in group B vitamins: Meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, eggs, green leafy vegetables, legumes, whole grains.
   • Products rich in lutein and zeaxantin: Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, cabbage), yellow and orange vegetables (pepper, corn), egg yolks.
   • Products rich in omega-3 fatty acids: Fat fish (salmon, tuna, sardines, herring), linen seed, chia seeds, walnuts.
   • Products rich in zinc: Meat, poultry, seafood, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains.
   • Products rich in selenium: Brazilian nuts, seafood, meat, poultry, eggs, whole grains.
6. 2. Reception of additives:
   • The need for additives: In some cases, when insufficient consumption of vitamins and antioxidants with food, additives may be required.
   • Choosing additives: When choosing additives, it is important to pay attention to product quality, dosage and composition. It is recommended to choose additives from reliable manufacturers who have undergone quality control.
   • Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any additives, you need to consult a doctor in order to make sure their safety and effectiveness, as well as avoid interaction with other drugs.
   • Cautions: High doses of some vitamins and antioxidants can be harmful to health. It is important to observe the recommended dosages and not exceed them without consulting a doctor.
7. 3. Other factors affecting the health of the eyes:
   • UV protection protection: Wear sunglasses with protection against UV radiation to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of sunlight.
   • Healthy lifestyle: Observe a healthy lifestyle, including rejection of smoking, moderate use of alcohol, regular physical exercises and sufficient sleep.
   • Regular examinations by an ophthalmologist: Pass regular examinations at an ophthalmologist to identify and treat eye diseases in the early stages.
   • Control of chronic diseases: Control chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, which can increase the risk of cataracts and glaucomas.
   • Proper use of computers and gadgets: Take breaks when working at the computer to reduce the load on the eyes. Use moisturizing eye drops to prevent dry eyes.

Chapter 6: New research and prospects

6. 1. The latest scientific discoveries:
   • The role of intestinal microbioma: New studies show that intestinal microbia can affect the health of the eyes. The imbalance of microbioma can contribute to the development of inflammation and oxidative stress, which can increase the risk of eye diseases.
   • Genetic factors: New genes related to the risk of cataracts and glaucomas are identified. This can lead to the development of new methods for the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases.
   • New antioxidants: New antioxidants are investigated, which can be more effective in protecting the eyes from damage.
   • Personalized medicine: The methods of personalized medicine are developed, which take into account the individual characteristics of the patient when choosing methods for the prevention and treatment of eye diseases.
7. 2. Future research areas:
   • Development of new drugs: Development of new drugs for the treatment of cataracts and glaucomas, which will be more effective and safe.
   • Using stem cells: Using stem cells to restore damaged eye tissue.
   • Gene therapy: Gene therapy for the treatment of genetic diseases of the eyes.
   • Artificial intelligence: The use of artificial intelligence for the diagnosis and monitoring of eye diseases.
   • Development of new drug delivery methods: Development of new methods of drug delivery to the eye, which will be more effective and less invasive.
8. 3. Recommendations for the future:
   • Continuation of research: It is necessary to continue research in the field of prevention and treatment of cataracts and glaucoma.
   • Development of new methods of prevention: It is necessary to develop new methods of preventing eye diseases, which will be more effective and affordable.
   • Population training: It is necessary to train the population about the importance of a healthy lifestyle and regular examinations with an ophthalmologist.
   • Integration of new technologies: It is necessary to integrate new technologies into the practice of ophthalmology to improve the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases.
   • Cooperation between scientists and doctors: It is necessary to develop cooperation between scientists and doctors to accelerate progress in the field of ophthalmology.

Key words: Eye vitamins, cataract prevention, glaucoma prevention, eye antioxidants, eyes, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E vitamin E, vitamins of group B, lutein, zeaxantin, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, selenium, astaxantin, bioflavonoids, retina, visual nerve, intraocular pressure, oxidative pressure, oxidative pressure, oxidative pressure, oxidative pressure, oxidative pressure, oxidative pressure, oxidative pressure, oxidative pressure, oxidative pressure, oxidative pressure, oxidative pressure. Stress, free radicals, a healthy lifestyle, examination by an ophthalmologist.