Other studies analyzed the antioxidant carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin and found no protection. The current situation in regard to dietary nutrients in prevention of macular degeneration and cataracts, the two leading causes of severe visual impairment in older persons, is very well summarized in an excellent article by Dr William G. Christen of Harvard Medical School published in the Proceedings of the Association of the American Physicians in February 1999. He first reviewed the available studies relating to both cataracts and macular degeneration. Dr Christen is clearly correct. The study results are so inconsistent that no conclusion is possible.
Several trials studying antioxidants are now in progress.
Still, it could turn out that antioxidants are beneficial in either or both of these debilitating diseases. All we need is proof. Seddon, A.M., et al. Dietary carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E and advanced age-related macular degeneration. Journal of the American Medical Association.