Preventing cataracts may be as easy as increasing intake of caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea and soft drinks, according to some new research.

The study presented at the 2010 Annual Meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology found that the caffeine ingredient may be effective in protecting the lens against damage that could lead to the formation of cataracts.

Researchers from the University of Maryland School of Medicine studied the oxyradical effects in vitro by exposing mice lenses to medium-exposed ultraviolet (UV) rays in the form of UVA. This was done in the presence of kynurenine—both with and without caffeine. Studies were also conducted on rats by incorporating caffeine with galactose in their diet. In both cases, caffeine was found to be effective in protecting the lens against damage.

"These effects of caffeine have not been reported before and are hence considered highly interesting in view of its relatively high content in widely consumed beverages," the researchers wrote.

Additional research to determine the pharmacological significance of this study is underway.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of an eye. As the cloudiness increases, it can cause vision problems that get progressively worse.

Surgery is the only known remedy for the condition, as it cannot be cured with medications, dietary supplements, exercise or optical devices.

“A Daily Multivitamin Won’t Help My Eyesight?”

Not nearly enough, unfortunately. Multivitamins are not developed with healthy vision in mind. They lack many of the essential nutrients to support sharp, clear vision.

In fact, one popular brand has insufficient dosages of a handful of key eye nutrients—and none of most of the others!

What can you do instead to protect your precious eyes? Discover a breakthrough natural formula that contains 18 vitamins, minerals and amino acids your eyes require for optimal vision—and all balanced in the proper amounts.

With a daily serving, many folks experience stronger, healthier vision. Don’t stake your vision on a worthless multivitamin. Find out more about this all-natural, vision-boosting supplement when you click here.