Protect Your Eyes With Proper Nutrition
Monday, March 22nd, 2010As we age our eyes are vulnerable to three different medical problems. The worst is macular degeneration related to age or AMD. This disease is caused by degeneration of cells in the macula, the part of the eye that controls central vision. Another problem that accompanies aging is the development of cataracts. A cataract is due to damage caused by free radicals, causing a cloud over the lens. The elderly are also prone to dry eye syndrome, because in the process of aging, our eyes become less efficient in the production of tears. Syndrome dry eye does not interfere with vision but it is painful. Cataracts can be successfully removed in outpatient surgery and vision is restored. However, macular degeneration can be reversed, it is a chronic problem. As we age, it is important to make nutritional choices that address these diseases and protect our vision. It is equally important that we avoid foods that may contribute to impair our vision. Two carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin are present in large quantities in the retina and lens of the eye. Here, they act as antioxidants to protect the eyes against free radical damage. There have been several research studies on the value of these carotenoids in eye health. On April 7, 2004, the North Chicago VA Medical Center said in a press release that lutein had been proven to help prevent and even reverse the symptoms of AMD. Both lutein and zeaxanthin found in green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, kale and other leafy vegetables. However, doctors also advise that people increase their consumption of these substances by supplementation some research studies showed that to be effective in reversing the symptoms of macular degeneration, the doses should be higher than can be get food consumption alone. The eggs are good sources of antioxidants. A study has been reported in the Journal of Nutrition reported that only thirty-three adults who ate an egg each day for five weeks, there is an increase of carotenoids, with no negative effect on blood fats or cholesterol. Beta-carotene, found in the yellow and orange vegetables such as carrots, cantaloupes, pumpkins and squash are also important for normal vision and health of the retina. A mineral, which you need in your diet for optimal eye health is zinc. This is readily available in fortified cereals, whole grains, legumes and nuts. It is also important to eat fish that contains omega-3 fatty acids DHA. The fish has been found helpful for people with dry eye syndrome. Omega-3 is found in coldwater fish like salmon and black cod. People who are concerned about mercury levels in fish should consider a supplement of fish oil. Finally, the antioxidant glutathione is necessary for the health of the target. However, this can be obtained from food. Your body manufactures it in the liver but first you must eat foods containing sulfur such as onions, garlic, shallot and capers. However, some doctors recommend purchasing this as a supplement (250 mg. Twice a day of alpha-lipoic acid). What you eat may be as important as what you eat. It is recommended to avoid trans fats, saturated fats, and foods made with sugar and flour. These foods can stress your liver and will negatively impact the functioning of your eye. In other words, try to stay away from processed foods and fast. If some of these recommendations have been beneficial for people with symptoms of various eye problems, you will realize greater benefits if you start when your eyes are still young and healthy.