Can I take something or do something to slow my cataracts?

If you are diabetic, tight control of your sugar levels are recommended.   Otherwise – if you are not diabetic – there is honestly not much that you can do to slow cataract development. 

I have heard many remedies over the years from fish oil to bilberry and lutein.  There is nothing proven to slow cataract progression however a diet rich in antioxidant foods may help.

There is a study that shows that two drinks of wine per day (high antioxidant / high resveratrol (red wine)) delayed and reduced cataract development.  The age-adjusted, five-year incidence of any type of cataract was 32.2% among non-drinkers; however, only 13% of individuals who moderately consumed wine developed cataracts*

Sun protection is import for many reasons… however realistically, most of the sun damage has already occurred and wearing sunglasses will likely not slow your cataract development.  Sunglasses are always recommended and will help cataract-related glare symptoms.

* Sasaki H, Jonasson F, Suwa Y, et al. The protective effect of wine intake on five years incidence of cataractReykjavik Eye Study. ARVO May 2005. Abstract/Poster# 3840/B198.

Can my health influence my cataracts?

Yes - There are many systemic conditions that can directly cause early-onset cataracts (e.g. diabetes). 

Some systemic conditions (e.g. autoimmune conditions) can cause eye inflammations that can lead to cataract.  Also, some medications used to treat systemic health conditions can themselves cause cataracts (e.g. prednisone).

Systemic illness and ocular health issues including cataract are important connections not be ignored.  Your eyes can reflect your general health in many ways.   Speak to your eye care provider about the connection.  If you are developing premature cataracts there are many tests that should be performed to rule out specific conditions.