Evidence supporting the use of: Riboflavin (vitamin B2)
For the health condition: Cataracts

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) has some scientific basis for its use in supporting or preventing cataracts, though the strength of evidence is modest. Riboflavin is essential for normal cellular function, growth, and energy production. It plays a key role in the metabolism of other B vitamins and is required for the maintenance of glutathione, a major antioxidant in the eye lens. Oxidative stress is a well-established contributor to cataract formation, and riboflavin deficiency can impair the eye's antioxidant defenses, potentially accelerating lens opacity development.

Several observational studies have found associations between low riboflavin intake and increased risk of cataracts. For example, population-based studies in China and India have reported higher cataract prevalence among individuals with lower dietary or blood levels of riboflavin. However, interventional studies showing that riboflavin supplementation prevents or treats cataracts are limited and inconclusive. Most clinical trials have used multivitamin or B-complex supplements, making it difficult to isolate the effect of riboflavin alone.

Some ophthalmological procedures, such as corneal cross-linking for keratoconus, use riboflavin in combination with UV light to strengthen corneal tissue, but this is unrelated to cataract treatment. Overall, riboflavin is considered important for eye health, and deficiency should be corrected, but robust clinical evidence supporting riboflavin supplementation specifically for cataract prevention or treatment remains limited. Thus, the evidence rating is moderate to low (2/5).

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