Maintaining healthy vision should be a priority. Studies have found that taking nutritional supplements containing lutein can help prevent some vision problems. In the LAST (The Veterans Lutein Antioxidants Supplementation Trial Study) medical study, lutein was found to be good for eye health. This powerful supplement helps prevent, treat or improve eye problems such as Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).
It is also believed by many eyecare practitioners, that a diet high in antioxidants such as beta-carotene (vitamin A), vitamins C and E to be beneficial for maintaining healthy vision and help in preventing eye problems. Carotenoids (lutein and zeaxanthin), which are found in vegetables such as spinach, kale and collard greens, also help to promote eye health.
Protecting the eyes from the sun's harmful UV and blue light rays is also important in the prevention of cataracts and other eye problems. Sunglasses with ANSI rated UV lenses should always be worn when outdoors especially at peak sun time from 10 am to 2 pm.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration is an eye disease affecting the macular area in the retina. The macular is a small spot in the retina responsible for central vision. Central vision is needed for tasks such as driving a car, reading, computer work and any other highly focused activity. AMD destroys sharp central vision by decreasing the macular pigment in the retina causing areas of vision loss. Damage to the macula can result in some or even total loss of vision. For persons age 65 and over, AMD is a leading cause of blindness. This degeneration process occurs due to the normal consequences of aging. Other believed causes of AMD are UV light exposure, cigarette smoking, heredity, light color eyes, high alcohol consumption and poor nutrition. With the aging of the population, AMD is expected to increase by 50 percent effecting 2.95 million people in the United States alone. Research estimates that 1.75 million people over 40 years old have AMD. AMD accounts for 45 percent of all visual disability in the United States making this eye condition a national concern. Early detection of this eye disorder leads to more effective treatment. A thorough annual eye exam is recommended. Medical studies have found the importance of eating carotenoid rich foods to help maintain eye health. Recent studies have shown the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin may aid in the prevention and treatment of AMD. These two powerful antioxidants are essential nutrients for the normal functioning of the macula. A lutein deficiency in the macular area has been implicated as a risk factor for AMD.
Return to Top
Dry eyes is a condition of the eye that causes an uncomfortable feeling of irritation such as itching, redness, burning and excessive tearing. It is one of the most common eye problems treated by eye care practitioners. In the United States it is estimated that over 10 million people suffer from dry eyes. Generally what causes this problem is the quality of the tear film. Dry eye syndrome has many causes. One of the most common reasons for this eye condition is the normal aging process. As we age, our bodies produce less oil which effects the tear film. The tear film evaporates at a much faster rate leaving dry areas on the cornea. Other causes of dry eyes are cigarette smoking, air-conditioning and certain medications. The environment can cause dry eyes as well in low humidity conditions as found in hot, dry or windy climates. Spending long hours looking at a computer screen is another cause of dry eyes where poor blinking habits are formed causing dry eyes. Many contact lens wearers have dry eyes and therefore cannot wear lenses for long periods of time. The contact lens absorbs the tear film causing the evaporation of tears. Contacts also restrict oxygen getting to the cornea. Prevention of dry eyes involves certain lifestyle changes. It is important to hydrate the body by drinking eight to ten glasses of water a day. Blinking frequently helps to lubricate the eyes when watching TV, reading or using a computer for long periods of time. There are various forms of treating dry eyes including the usage of artificial tears, ointments or by closing the opening of the tear drain in the eyelid with inserts called punctual plugs. For preventing dry eye, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids have been found to have a significant benefit for maintaining eye health. It is important that the eyes are hydrated and if dry eye persists, the condition can lead to scarring of the cornea and even loss of vision.
Return to Top
A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens making it difficult to see. The lens function is to focus light and produce clear, sharp images. When a cataract is present, these opaque spots obstruct vision. Cataracts develop within the eye and are the leading cause of visual loss among adults 55 years of age and older. The majority of the population will develop cataracts in their lifetime. For most people developing cataracts is a normal part of the aging process. The eye’s lens is made of protein and water. As people age, some of the protein may cluster together and start to cloud a small part of the lens. This process starts the formation of a cataract. Over time the cataract may get larger and cloud more of the lens, making it difficult to see. Many eyecare practitioners and researchers believe one of the best ways to prevent cataracts is to wear sunglasses with sufficient UV protection whenever outdoors.
Return to Top
Glaucoma is a collection of eye diseases in which vision is loss due to optic nerve damage. The optic nerve transmits light signals from the retina to the brain. The brain then translates these signals into images. Since most people do not suffer any symptoms, glaucoma is difficult to detect until a significant amount of vision is lost. Usually the first indication of this disease is a noticeably difference in the reduction of peripheral vision. Optic nerve fibers that are associated with peripheral retinal cells are damaged first which affects peripheral vision. The eye’s aqueous humor is the clear fluid surrounding the cornea and iris. When the aqueous humor being produced is not equal to the amount that is draining out, pressure is created within the eye. Since the aqueous humor cannot properly drain increased intraocular pressure (IOP) occurs which eventually damages the optic nerve. Vision loss resulting from glaucoma can be greatly reduced or even prevented if the disease is detected early and controlled. Regular eye exams are recommended especially for people who are 40 years or older. The elderly should have an annual eye examination including a test for measuring the intraocular pressure.
Return to Top
Store
