Cataracts develop in our eyes as we age and slowly cloud the lens of the eye, eventually causing blindness. Cataracts are the world’s leading cause of blindness, and cataract removal surgery is the most widely performed surgical procedure in the United States. Despite the advances in surgical techniques, and the pervasiveness of cataract surgery, the removal procedure still holds risk for patients. Complications of cataract removal surgery include floaters in the eye, double vision, persistent watery eyes, blurred vision, chronic pain, and in extreme cases, blindness.
Fortunately, there is hope for those who develop cataracts. Recent studies have found there is a strong connection between consumption of foods with high vitamin C content and a slowing in the progression of cataract growth. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that has long been connected with prevention of the common cold, cancer prevention, promotion of healthy blood sugar in diabetics, prevention of cardiovascular disease, and development of healthier skin and blood vessels. Researchers discovered that vitamin C occurs naturally in high amounts in the fluid of the eye, and it is now believed that a diet rich in vitamin C helps maintain nutrient levels in the eye, specifically around the lens, preventing oxidation of the lens and keeping the cloudiness at bay. According to the study, subjects who consumed a diet rich in vitamin c showed a 33% reduction in their risk for cataracts.
If you are looking to enjoy more fruits and vegetables and protect your eye health, be sure to incorporate red and yellow bell peppers, dark green leafy vegetables, kiwi, broccoli, berries, citrus fruits, cooked tomatoes, and tropical fruits like guava and papaya into your diet. It is important to note that these encouraging developments in eye health relate only to eating foods with plenty of vitamin C, and not vitamin supplements like pills, capsules, or extractions. To ensure optimum eye health in any stage of life, preventive care is essential. Be sure to schedule an examination with an ophthalmologist to establish an initial baseline exam, and have regular examinations to allow for the early diagnosis and intervention should a problem arise. At Alpine Eye Care, our caring team of professionals offer a full range of procedures and treatments for vision correction, cosmetic eye treatment and management of eye conditions. Call or click today to schedule your appointment.