Study Shows That Vitamin E Does Not Prevent Macular Degeneration

by Dan Roberts August, 2002 Until recently, some doctors have thought that megadoses of Vitamin E might help prevent macular degeneration. This opinion was bolstered by the National Eye Institute study and the resulting AREDS report on the benefits of high doses of antioxidants and zinc, which included Vitamin E. New research has concluded, however, [Read More]

Email Discussion Groups May Improve Health

by Dan Roberts April 2002 Researchers have shown that participation in an email discussion group may improve health status and lower health care utilization for persons with recurrent back pain. This is the first study of its kind which looked at Internet support in connection with health improvement, and it is this writer’s belief that [Read More]

Stargardt’s Patients Need Special Light Protection

by Robert Hammer, B. Optom. January 2002 The gene for Stargardt’s disease has been identified (Allikmet et al.’97 Nat. Gen. 15:236-246). The faulty gene fails to code for a protein which is present in rod outer segments only (has not been found in cones, pigment epithelium or anywhere else in the body). This protein was [Read More]

You May Need Vitamin D

by Dan Roberts If you are protecting your retinas by avoiding direct sunlight, you may also be depriving yourself of a natural source of vitamin D. This is the vitamin which allows your body to absorb enough calcium for strong bones. It is also important to protect us against muscle weakness and possibly a risk [Read More]

Spinach For Sight

Light-sensitive proteins in chlorophyll may provide treatment for some eye diseases. by Carolyn Krause Reprinted with permission from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory ORNL Reporter, Issue 30, September 2001. Spinach, a vegetable famously rich in vitamins and minerals, can be safely assumed to be good for the eyes. A collaboration between ORNL researchers and the [Read More]