Did you know
that regularly enjoying a piece of fruit and a side of vegetables can help
prevent vision loss from cataracts? Many Americans don’t eat enough fresh vegetables
and fruits. Most of us know that these foods are important for avoiding heart
disease, stroke and cancer but don’t associate diet with cataract prevention. Studies
from the United States, Japan and Sweden show that a diet rich in foods with
substances called antioxidants may reduce your risk of developing cataracts. Antioxidants
protect our cells from damage caused by molecules called free radicals. That damage is
called oxidation. Free radicals
in our bodies may come from:
- the
sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays,
- tobacco smoke,
- pollution,
and
- the body’s
normal process of using energy.
Oxidation can
lead to cataracts by causing changes to fats and proteins in the eye’s lens, making the lens cloudy. Antioxidants
help slow down or prevent free radical damage. Antioxidants include vitamins C
and E, certain substances in plants called flavonoids, and some minerals like
selenium.
While
you can take antioxidant supplements in the form of daily pills or capsules,
these beneficial vitamins and minerals are best when they come from a healthy
diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Loading
up in the produce aisle and on your plate with fresh veggies and delicious
fruits, knowing you are doing your eyes a favor!
A daily diet rich in fruits and vegetables may help prevent cataract
formation. If you or someone you know is experiencing
cataract symptoms such as cloudy foggy vision, glare or difficult night driving
and would like to learn more about cataract surgery & lens implants please
schedule an eye exam at Center for Sight 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.
Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 for patients from Massachusetts or Rhode Island.
