Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin E
For the health condition: Cataracts

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Vitamin E has been studied for its potential role in the prevention and treatment of cataracts, primarily due to its antioxidant properties. The lens of the eye is particularly susceptible to oxidative damage, which is believed to contribute to the development and progression of cataracts. Vitamin E, as a lipid-soluble antioxidant, can neutralize free radicals and may protect lens proteins and lipids from oxidative stress.

Several observational studies have suggested that higher dietary intake or blood levels of vitamin E are associated with a reduced risk of cataract formation. For example, some population-based studies have shown a modest decrease in cataract risk among individuals with higher vitamin E intake. However, large randomized controlled trials (RCTs), such as the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), have not found a significant benefit of vitamin E supplementation in slowing the progression of cataracts. Meta-analyses of RCTs have generally concluded that the evidence does not support a clear protective effect of vitamin E supplements against cataract development or progression.

In summary, while the biological rationale for using vitamin E to prevent cataracts is strong and some epidemiological data are supportive, high-quality interventional studies have not confirmed a significant benefit. Therefore, the use of vitamin E for cataract prevention or treatment is based on scientific investigation, but the evidence for efficacy is weak to moderate (rated 2/5).

More about vitamin E
More about Cataracts