Nutrition for Your Eyes
A study in the Journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests an increasing role of nutrition in preventing cataracts, the leading cause of blindness in the world. Usually associated with aging, the most common type of cataract is known as a nuclear cataract occurring in the center portion of the lens.
Specific antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E may protect against the development of this type of cataract. Other nutrients have now been discovered to play an important protective role in the prevention of cataracts. Vitamin A, which is abundant in spinach, can protect against the nuclear cataract. What you may not know is that another compound in the vitamin A group, known as lutein, is also important in preventing this type of cataract as well.
Another new finding is that vitamins B1 (thiamin) and B2 (riboflavin) as well as niacin significantly reduce the development of nuclear cataracts. These are all members of the B-vitamin family. Of course, we can obtain other helpful compounds for the eyes such as zeaxanthin. These compounds can protect us not only from cataracts, but also from age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A balanced diet will provide these nutrients, but I feel a natural supplement on a daily basis is essential to insure optimal health for the lens and retina to prevent cataracts and AMD.
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In an issue of Ophthalmology Management, doctors were actually advised to "make vitamin talk an integral part of your approach to patient care." The article went on to state that there is sufficient scientific evidence that supports the benefits of vitamins, and in particular nutritional supplements for reducing cataracts, glaucoma and AMD.
What are some of the key points in optimal eye health? To prevent cataract formation, vitamin C and glutathione are extremely important. I recommend 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C and 10 milligrams of glutathione daily. Studies show that these two substances protect the lens of the eye from ultraviolet light-induced effects. Also, don't forget your sunglasses that block out the harmful UV rays!
Glaucoma is another major concern and the article in Ophthalmology Management recommends the essential fatty acid known as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), found in fish oil, as a preventive. Also available as a natural supplement, the recommended daily dosage is 240 milligrams.
Studies also show that lutein, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc can all help to strengthen retinal tissue and benefit patients with both glaucoma and AMD. I recommend a daily nutritional supplement that includes lutein, as well as 25,000 milligrams of vitamin C and 800 IU of vitamin E (in the natural form, d-alpha tocopherol). Also, 15 milligrams of zinc in the form of zinc citrate is recommended daily.
Also be aware of the benefits of magnesium. Magnesium dilates blood vessels and is beneficial for patients who have what is known as "normal tension glaucoma," as well as AMD. I recommend a supplement containing 400 milligrams of magnesium daily in three different forms: oxide, citrate and alpha-ketoglutarate.
The simplest way you can protect your eye health is by taking a carefully designed natural supplement that contains the various formulations and dosages I've recommended. It's an essential step in your pathway to healing for your eyes.
