Cataracts are an age-related eye condition which develop when changes in the lens of the eye cause it to become transparent, resulting in cloudy or misty vision.
Routine checkups with your eye doctor are very important as they are able to provide comprehensive eye exams and cataract management services to ensure that your vision remains clear and comfortable, no matter your age.
Learn More: Calgary Cataract Management Services
But You Can Also Lower Your Cataract Risk...
Following a healthy and nutritious diet can have a large impact on the health of your eyes. Numerous studies have shown that patients who consistently follow a diet that is rich in antioxidants and certain vitamins have a reduced risk of developing cataracts.
Nutrition & Cataract Management
Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness worldwide and have often been thought of as an inescapable part of aging.
However, recent studies have indicated that a healthy diet - particularly when practiced earlier in life - can act as a very successful cataract management technique and significantly lower your risk of developing this eye condition.
That’s why many eye doctors will recommend lifestyle changes and a diet rich in antioxidants to their patients to help slow the progression of cataracts.
This includes:
- Foods High in Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant found in many fruits and vegetables. Eye doctors recommend a daily dose of 90mg for men and 75mg for women as this helps support the health of the blood vessels in the eye, lowering the risk of cataract development.
Aside from being an effective cataract management technique, a diet rich in Vitamin C can also slow the progression of other eye conditions such as age-related macular degeneration and visual acuity loss.
Learn More: 3 Simple & Delicious Recipes To Keep Your Eyes Healthy
- Leafy Green Vegetables
Numerous studies have shown that leafy green vegetables, which are high in Vitamin A and antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, can help:
- Reduce your risk of developing cataracts
- Prevent existing cataracts from worsening
For effective cataract management, be sure to add vegetables such as broccoli, kale, spinach and romaine lettuce to your diet.
- Low-Carb Diet
Eye doctors agree that a diet high in carbohydrates may increase cataract risk by at least three times. This is because a high sugar concentration in the lens of the eye can lead to protein damage and clumping, factors which contribute to cataract formation.
In addition, excessive consumption of carbohydrates can lead to other serious eye conditions such as macular degeneration and dry eye syndrome.
Learn More: Calgary Dry Eye Care
- Vitamin Supplements
If you have an early-stage cataract, ask your eye doctor about taking vitamin supplements. Getting the adequate levels of Vitamins C, E and A required for cataract management may be difficult through diet alone and supplements can help ensure the long-term health of your vision.
Learn More
To learn more about our comprehensive cataract management services, contact our eye clinic today at 430-286-4884.
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