As we age, so do our eyes. Many people in the second half of their life begin to develop eye problems. Problems such as cataracts which is clouding of the lenses or macular degeneration which is a thinning at the center of the eye’s inner lining that can bring about loss of central vision. Glaucoma is another disease that damages your optic nerve, leading to vision loss. Some will deal with something as simple as chronic dry eyes. There are things you can do to keep your eyes healthy as you age.
The most important thing that a person can do to protect their eye sight is to NOT smoke. Smoking dramatically increases a person odds of developing cataracts or macular degeneration. Smoking also, exacerbates dry eye syndrome and allergic eye conditions.
Next to smoking, proper rest for your eyes is very paramount. This is especially true if you work at a computer. It is important to take even a small break every half hour or so to give your eyes a rest.
Eating your greens, not just your carrots is very important to eye health. Green leafy vegetables like kale and spinach are the best because they contain the phytochemical lutein. Lutein is a naturally occurring carotenoid that studies show, may reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Try to include a serving of at least one of these in your diet daily.
Lastly, vitamins such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, beta carotene, Zinc and copper are essential for eye health. Of course the best way to get these vitamins is from whole foods or whole food supplements.
Lowering your insulin levels is also very important. This can be done by avoiding sugar and processed foods such as pastas, breads and cereals.
Following a healthy lifestyle will go a long way toward protecting your vision. By improving your diet, you not only get the benefits of stronger, healthier eyes, you also get an overall healthier body.
Dr. Tina Paul, BCND, Traditional Naturopath, Vibrant Living Wellness Center, 144 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre, (626) 470-7711 or visit www.vibrantlivingwc.com.