This month's Ophthalmology includes a research of the effects of Vitamins C and E and magnesium on diabetic retinopathy and findings from the first study of vision problems in Hispanic and African-American infants and young children.

Can supplements help people with diabetes avoid retinopathy?

In theory, Vitamins C and E and magnesium could help prevent or limit diabetic retinopathy, a potentially blinding disease, since each nutreient causes the body to respond in ways that alter retinopathy mechanisms. For example, in animal models Vitamins C and E suppress production of a growth factor, VEG-F, which can promote abnormal blood vessels in the retina. And high dietary levels of magnesium are associated with lower blood pressure and bloog sugar, both of wich correlate with a lower risk of retinopathy. A research team led by Amanda Adler, MD, PhD, Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge, United Kingdom, surveyed studies published from 1988 through 2008 on the impact of these micronutrients on DR. Based on 15 selected studies comprising 4,094 individuals, Dr. Adler says the evidence is not strong enough yet to recomment Vitamins C or E or magnesium supplements for patients with diabetes. She thinks the research should continue, though, and recommends specific parameters.

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Bron: Eye Smart - 4/1/2010