Long-term vitamins, carotenoids and cataracts
This study shows a benefit of carotenoids (remember that beta-carotene is but one of hundreds of carotenoids that nature gives us) and Vit C on preventing cataracts. I would personally add bioflavenoids such as bilberry extract to this list. This is no great surprise, considering that many fruits and vegetables are heavily exposed to sunlight and have developed their own methods of preventing oxidative damage from UV exposure. When we eat these compounds, this confers that protective ability on our tissues as well.
AJCN — Abstracts: Taylor et al. 75 (3): 540