Cataract Prevention: What You Need To Know

Michelle Hopkins

Taking care of your eyes may not always be your top priority. In fact, you probably take your eyes and vision for granted more often than not. However, because proper vision is so important to your daily life, now is the time to start getting proactive about your eye health. Cataracts are a common affliction among people as they age and the only cure is cataract surgery. Any optometrist will tell you that the onset of cataracts can be prevented (or at least delayed) as long as the patient knows exactly what to do to protect their eyes. So, learn what you need to do, and get started as soon as possible to prevent yourself from a future of impaired vision and cataract surgeries.

Wear Those Sunglasses

Sunglasses are not just a fashion statement. While a little sun exposure is good for both your skin and your eyes, too much is extremely damaging. UV (ultraviolet) radiation from the sun's rays can actually cause cataracts.

So, invest in a pair of sunglasses that offer the highest possible UVB protection (99 percent is best) and UVA protection of similar strength. That way you can still enjoy the fresh air and sunshine without damaging the delicate tissues of your eyes.

Eat More Fish

Fish such as wild Alaska salmon, herring, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Your eyes, the retina in particular, are made up largely of omega-3s. So, it stands to reason that a diet plentiful in omega-3 fatty acids is good for your eyes and vision.

If you are not a fan of fish, you can either opt for a fish oil supplement, or use plant-based sources of omega-3s. These include flaxseeds, walnuts, and edamame.

Try Bilberry

You may not have heard of the bilberry before now, but it is a very healthy and delicious fruit. Bilberries are a cousin of the blueberry.

They are actually even better for you than blueberries, however. Bilberries have extremely potent antioxidants that have a protective effect on the eyes. This is accomplished by acting as an anti-inflammatory to relieve pressure that causes vision loss and chronic eye strain.

Additionally, bilberry is good for the circulatory system. It strengthens capillaries and as such, increases blood flow to the eyes helping to maintain eye health and visual acuity.

Cataracts are one of the biggest causes of blindness around the world. In spite of this, cataracts can be easily prevented just by taking a few simple steps. It is never too late to start taking better care of your eyes and vision. So get started today and make sure you visit your optometrist, such as someone from Tri State Ophthalmology, for regular eye exams to ensure you are staying on track.


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