Demographic Evidence Tells the Story Over four decades ago, scientists noticed that cataract development correlated with geographic location, lifestyle, and food habits. Cataracts occur most where the sun is brightest and the upper atmosphere ozone the lowest. In short, ultraviolet light hitting the eye lens is the root cause. People whose diets are poorest in vegetables and fruits, especially those rich in vitamins C and E and bioflavonoids, have the highest rates of cataracts everywhere. Confirming studies abound.
Confirmation also comes from the antioxidant composition of the eye.
Similarly, all tissues are rich in two specific bioflavonoids, lutein and zeaxanthine. Most experts recommend about 14 milligrams of each daily. The best sources of lutein and zeaxanthine are kale, greens, spinach and broccoli. Your mother was right when she told you to eat your vegetables. You can deduce that the major protector substances in the eye are obtained from fruits and vegetables.