Cataracts - Prevention

Provided by: Healthwise
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Prevention

There is no proven way to prevent cataracts. However, certain lifestyle habits may help slow cataract development. These include:

  • Not smoking.
  • Wearing a hat or sunglasses when you are in the sun and avoiding sunlamps and tanning booths.
  • Eating a diet rich in vitamins C and E. Eat at least 3 servings of fresh fruits or green, leafy vegetables, and take a multivitamin every day. There is no solid proof that these foods prevent cataracts, but researchers are studying this.
  • Limiting your alcohol intake.
  • Avoiding the use of steroid medicines when possible (some people need them).
  • Keeping diabetes under control.
Medical Review:Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, FRCSC - Ophthalmology
Last Updated: 10/01/2007

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