Eggs,
Leafy Greens May Protect Against Blindness, New Tufts Research
Finds Antioxidants in Vegetables May Prevent
Condition Affecting 13 Million Americans
Boston
-- Tufts scientists have discovered that eggs and leafy greens
may protect against a common form of blindness. New research by
University researchers appears to link components in the two foods
to the prevention of macular degeneration -- a condition that
causes blindness in 13 million Americans.
"One
in six Americans between the ages of 55 and 65 has some signs
of macular degeneration," Tufts researcher Dr. Jim Joseph told
WCVB-TV, ABC's Boston affiliate. "The good news is we're learning
that dietary factors can help prevent this condition."
Blumberg
said lutein and zeaxanthine -- two components found in eggs and
leafy vegetables, including spinach and kale -- act as antioxidants
and protect eyes from harmful ultraviolet eyes. According to Blumberg,
the dietary recommendations for fruits and vegetables -- at least
five servings each day -- and a couple eggs each week, should
be sufficient to protect the eyes.
"Most
healthy people can eat an egg a day and get lots of lutein and
zeaxanthine in the process without any adverse risk for heart
disease," Blumberg told WCVB.