http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=c8h&AN=117367919&site=ehost-live Regular eye exams are strongly recommended for prevention of vision loss. However, The WHO (World Health Organization) suggests to make changes in lifestyles that can reduce loss of vision. This article discusses the changes that can be made to reduce these risks. Some of the changes discussed are smoking cessation, proper diet maintenance, and diabetes control. According to the article, smoking is one of 3 risk factors for cataracts (with the other 2 being UV light exposure and age). Smoking brings about oxidative stress. The surgeon general added cataracts as an the first ocular condition related to smoking effects.
Diet maintenance has been shown to help with the care of DM II, which also goes in hand with preventing vision loss. Consuming alot of green leafy vegetables is associated with a low risk of glaucoma. A higher intake of antioxidants has been shown to reduce cataracts and vision loss. Some known antioxidants are Vitamin C and Vitamin E. The antioxidant Vitamin
C plays a major role in reduction of vision loss. Antioxidants are natural protectants of oxidative stress.
Type 2 DM also seems to have a relationship with cataract formation and vision problems. With this condition, high levels of sorbitol collect in the lens. This begins the onset of vision loss. Sorbitol is a sugar that comes from glucose. Therefore, maintenance of DM II plays a big role in the reduction of vision loss.
I agree with your post and think eye health is very important. Your eyes have to last you a long time so take care of them as early as possible!!
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DeleteThis article proved to be an interesting read because it reinforces information that is generally known by many in the sense of a healthy diet and medical practices to prevent vision related problems. What stands out to me is that it seems to be even more important because vision is one of the senses that diminish significantly with age regardless of our health or lack of. That being the case, all of these preventative measures should be of even more importance when it comes to enhancing the longevity of one of our most keen senses. With the current trends of today the pre-emptive measures listed in this article are in sync with the natural homeopathic remedies. Vitamins C and E are natural defenses that can be easily found and are readily available in everyday markets and grocery stores alike. Vitamin A is also another natural that can be added by supplement as well as to a well-balanced diet. Excellent article!
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ReplyDeleteI most definitely agree with your article Mrs. Wallace. It is important for everybody to have regular eye exams to ensure long term good vision. Even more importantly individuals with diabetes should make it a priority to get a yearly exam to check for early signs of diabetic retinopathy, also useful in checking for signs/symptoms of other eye conditions diabetics are prone to such, as glaucoma and diabetic macular edema, an early diagnosis and treatment can help avoid vision loss.
ReplyDeleteNutrients in fruits and vegetables are important because they provide antioxidants, which can help us over time maintain healthy eyes. Fruits and vegetables also provide protection because the nutrients in such foods provide antioxidants that our bodies cannot synthesize. Lutein and zeaxanthin are important antioxidants that help prevent degeneration in the lens and retina. Consuming a diet rich in these can help reduce the risk of AMD by fighting oxidation in the cells of the eyes.