Diet can help deter growth of cataracts
August 20, 2008
August is Cataract Awareness Month.
Cataracts are a common cause of blindness, and may result from exposure to sunlight.
If you have vision problems, deteriorating eyesight or you have been diagnosed with cataracts, glaucoma or macular degeneration, there are vitamins that can help.
Zeaxanthin and lutein are found in green leafy vegetables, such as kale, spinach, broccoli, zucchini and peas, as well as in yellow or orange fruits and vegetables such as carrots, papaya, peaches and squash.
These vitamins may prevent some eye changes that come with aging.
A new study suggests eating one portion of omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish oil per week may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration by more than 50 percent.
Studies also show consuming tomato-based foods protects against macular degeneration and cataracts.
Antioxidant a plus
Selenium can help prevent cataracts and macular degeneration by acting as an antioxidant.
Rich sources are red meat, grains, eggs, chicken, liver, garlic, brewer's yeast and wheat germ.
Research suggests vitamins A, E , C and zinc may help lower the rate of cataracts.
Vitamin A is found in fruits and vegetables containing yellow, orange and dark green pigments.
Vitamin E is found in wheat germ, nuts, seeds and oils.
Vitamin C is found in oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, broccoli and peppers.
Oysters contain more zinc per serving than any other food, but red meat and poultry provide the majority of zinc in the American diet.
Phytonutrients found in blueberries, brussels sprouts and spinach also help prevent degeneration of the eyes.
Dark berries, such as blackberries and cherries are high in flavonoids, which may inhibit the development of cataracts.
Red meat is the richest source of alpha-lipoic acid, an antioxidant, to fight against oxidative stress as we age, which may lead to eye problems.
According to studies, low levels of chromium are a major risk factor for increased intraocular pressure.
As our body does not make chromium naturally, it must be provided through diet.
The best sources are beef, liver, eggs, chicken, oysters, wheat germ, green peppers, apples, bananas and spinach.
Studies also show glutathione, an amino acid, may prevent cataracts, glaucoma, retinal disease and diabetic blindness.
Glutathione-rich foods are watermelon and grapefruit.
To keep your eyes healthy, fix your gaze on fruits and vegetables.