Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in most people. Oftentimes, cataracts don’t disrupt the vision early on because it develops slowly. It occurs when the lens of the eyes becomes clouded. The lens is a transparent structure mostly made up of water and protein fibers and is responsible for letting light rays to pass onto the retina. The lens loses clarity once the protein fibers clump together and when left untreated it can lead to blurred vision or complete blindness.
Cataracts symptoms include the following:
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred or dim vision
- Difficulties with night vision
- Double vision in one eye
- Loss of distance vision
- Loss of depth perception
- Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription
- Tendencies to see a halo or glare around lights
Most people are affected by cataracts by the age of 85 years. According to research, cataracts are caused by the oxidation of free radicals which damages the proteins and enzymes in the lens of the eyes.
Result of a study conducted in 2008 showed that consumption of antioxidant-rich foods can lessen the chance of developing cataracts by 18%. Antioxidants can help absorb harmful UV lights and stop damaged lens-fiber proteins from clumping together and causing cataracts. Additionally, vitamin E and beta-carotene can also help cure cataracts.
Some of the rich sources of antioxidants are beans, carrots, apples, oranges, celery, onions, tomatoes, garlic, and seaweeds.
Foods That Help Prevent Cataracts
1. Omega-3 fatty acids can fight inflammation and protect your eyes from cataract development. This can be found in fish like sardines and salmon.
2. Carrots and other orange-colored fruits and vegetables contain beta-carotene which helps the retina and other parts of the eye to function at its best.
3. Leafy greens, such as kale, Swiss chard, and spinach are rich in the carotenoid lutein. Meanwhile, red bell pepper provides the eyes with its needed vitamin C which reduces the risk of cataract condition.
4. Powerful antioxidants are found in rosemary. This makes the plant an effective remedy for cataract problem. For best and fast results, drink a cup of tea which is prepared with the use of rosemary, lemon balm, and catmint.
5. Wheatgrass juice can help remove the haze from the eyes and improve vision.
6. Avocados are loaded with carotenoids and beneficial eye nutrients such as beta-carotene and vitamins B6, C, and E.
7. Nuts and seeds are great sources of vitamin E which help protect the cells of the eyes from free radicals. Almonds and sunflower seeds, as well as pistachios and walnuts, are some of the best options.
8. Drinking grapeseed extract helps slow down the growth of cataracts. Also, its application can help prevent other eye-related problems.
9. Taking green tea 3-4 times a day can provide the body with the antioxidants it needs for general eye health and lower the risk of vision-related problems.
10. Ginkgo biloba promotes good eyesight by promoting healthy blood flow that carries more essential nutrients to your cells.
