By Linda Kaspari Updated, March 2006 Cigarette smoking reduces levels of plasma antioxidant, a substance in the blood stream, which protects retinal cells. Smoking causes the protective layer between the retina and blood vessels to erode, resulting in poor circulation, irritation and scarring. Smoking is damaging to the blood supply. Smoking exposes the body to [Read More]
Category: Health and Nutrition
Blue Light and Macular Degeneration
From “Macular Degeneration–The Complete Guide To Saving And Maximizing Your Sight” by Lylas G. Mogk, M.D. and Marja Mogk (Reprinted with permission) In many primate studies, blue light has been shown to cause a photochemical reaction that produces free radicals in the RPE and the rods and cones. Researchers believe that these free radicals interact [Read More]
Antioxidant Values in Fruits And Vegetables
by Dan Roberts September 2004 A study from Tufts University in Boston ranks the antioxidant value of commonly eaten fruits and vegetables using an analysis called ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity). This is a test tube analysis that measures the total antioxidant power of foods and other chemical substances. Antioxidants are special compounds that protect [Read More]
Beta Carotene And Smoking
by Dan Roberts July 2004 As most of us are aware, beta carotene (i.e. vitamin A) has been shown to increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers [Finnish Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention (ATBC) study]. For this reason, people who smoke, or have recently smoked, are being advised to avoid supplements containing beta carotene. This [Read More]
Study Demonstrates Essential Role of Zeaxanthin in Eye Health
Published by permission from RFB Communications Group, Inc. November 11, 2002 (Updated June 9, 2003) Schepens/Harvard study provides direct proof of dietary nutrient’s essential role in protecting the retina from the damaging effects of light. Skip to “Questions and Answers about Zeaxanthin”Research performed at Schepens Eye Research Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School [Read More]