Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 1

Vitamin E (often as tocopheryl acetate) has been investigated for its potential role in preventing or slowing the progression of cataracts due to its antioxidant properties. The rationale is that oxidative stress contributes to lens damage, and antioxidants like vitamin E could theoretically help protect lens proteins from oxidative changes that lead to cataract formation. Some observational studies have reported that higher dietary or plasma levels of vitamin E are associated with a lower risk of cataract development. However, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have generally failed to demonstrate a significant benefit of vitamin E supplementation for preventing or treating cataracts in humans. For example, the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) did not find vitamin E, alone or in combination with other antioxidants, to significantly slow cataract progression. Similarly, systematic reviews and meta-analyses have concluded that there is insufficient evidence to support vitamin E supplementation for cataract prevention or treatment. Thus, while there is a scientific basis for investigating vitamin E in this context, the evidence from human clinical trials does not support its efficacy. Vitamin E is not a standard treatment for cataracts, and major ophthalmology organizations do not recommend its use for this purpose.

More about Vitamin E (unspecified tocopheryl acetate)
More about Cataracts

Other ingredients used for Cataracts

Other health conditions supported by Vitamin E (unspecified tocopheryl acetate)

Products containing Vitamin E (unspecified tocopheryl acetate)