Researchers studied several experiments that showed the lens is normally in an oxygen deprived environment, and several studies the researchers looked over showed that patients treated for long periods with high levels of oxygen tend to develop nuclear cataracts. These findings suggest that oxygen may be toxic to the lens.
To study this further, researchers studied 171 human eyes from an eye bank, looking for cataracts and measuring the amount of liquid compared to the gel in the vitreous body.
Researchers found that nuclear cataracts were strongly related to vitreous liquefaction (breakdown of the vitreous body), independent of age. Researchers suggest that when the vitreous gel begins to break down from the retina and liquefies, it allows fluid to flow over the surface of the oxygen-rich retina, resulting in the oxygen being carried away in the fluid and delivered to lens, which may cause nuclear cataracts.
Currently there is no way to measure a person’s risk for developing cataracts, but researchers are working with advanced ultrasound techniques that may provide a way in the future.
Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science January, 2004;45(1):77-85
I recently posted an article with tips to protect your eyesight as you age, as contrary to popular belief your eyesight does not have to worsen as you get older. You need to make sure you are getting plenty of food based antioxidants. One of the most potent ones you can possibly take are those found in wild blueberries.
Fortunately, you can now get these antioxidants in extremely affordable, versatile and delicious Wild Blueberry IQ. I use these blueberry softgel capsules everyday for a potent daily nutritional boost -- and they taste fantastic. You may swallow the capsule or chew them. If you love blueberries half as much as I do you will be convinced that this is one of the best tasting ways to preserve or recover your vision.
The following steps can help reduce the risk of developing eye problems as you get older: