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]
Category: Health and Nutrition
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 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]
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]