Caffeine may be the "fix" in cataract prevention

For those who need their caffeine fix, there's now another reason to indulge in your favorite caffeinated beverage. A new study shows that caffeine may actually protect the lens of the eye against damage which can lead to the formation of cataracts. The University of Maryland researchers hypothesize that caffeine acts as an inhibitor for the intraocular generation of reactive oxygen species in the lens and the resulting damage to the eye tissue. Incubated mice lenses and rats who had caffeine incorporated into their diet were studied by the researchers. The research indicates that caffeine was effective in protecting the lens against damage.? Researchers found the results extremely interesting since caffeine is found in so many widely consumed beverages.* Andrea Schumann Staff Writer