HealthMap

Cataract Risk and Nutrient Deficiencies

• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
• Primary association: A deficiency in riboflavin is strongly linked to an increased risk of developing cataracts, particularly posterior subcapsular cataracts.
• Biochemical role: Essential for maintaining normal glutathione levels in the eye lens, acting as a crucial antioxidant.

• Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
• Primary association: Low levels in the aqueous humor of the eye correlate with higher cataract incidence.
• Biochemical role: Protects lens proteins and lipids from oxidative damage induced by UV light and metabolic processes.

• Vitamin E
• Primary association: Depleted tissue levels increase oxidative stress within the lens structure.
• Biochemical role: Works synergistically with other antioxidants to prevent free radical-mediated damage to lens cell membranes.

• Zinc
• Primary association: Suboptimal status is frequently observed in individuals with advanced lens opacification.
• Biochemical role: Acts as a vital cofactor for numerous antioxidant enzymes within ocular tissues.

• Selenium
• Primary association: Deficiency compromises the glutathione peroxidase enzyme system, accelerating lens degeneration.
• Biochemical role: Essential trace mineral for systemic and ocular antioxidant defense mechanisms.