According to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation, 10 million Americans are affected
by an eye condition known as macular degeneration.
Macular degeneration can result in central vision blindness
and is caused by the deterioration of the macula or central portion of the retina in the back of the eye. The macula controls
your ability to focus clearer on fine detail and see images sharper. The macula is responsible for the vision you need to
read, thread needles, drive and recognize colors.
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness among
people over 65 in North America.
Making intelligent choices about daily nutrition impacts your entire body, including
your senses. The benefits that vitamin A has on the eyes is no secret. In fact, the ancient Egyptians documented the use of
a juice derived from cooked liver, for night vision; liver is a rich source of vitamin A.
While the dietary ingredients listed below will not cure, treat, mitigate or prevent macular degeneration,
they do help support eye health.
Bilberry - is an antioxidant which protects
the body against free radical damage and provides dietary support for eye health.
Lutein -
is the phytonutrient commonly found in certain flowers and leafy vegetables like spinach. This important carotenoid is present
in the macula or central area of the retina and provides dietary support for eye health.
Vitamin
A - Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for eye health and normal vision.
Protect
your eyes from the sun- Ultraviolet radiation can harm anyone’s eyes even young children. Be sure to use a
wide brim hat and UV-absorbing eyewear to protect your delicate eyes from the harmful effects of the sun. Eyewear should provide
99 to 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B protection.
Regular eyeglasses do not provide enough protection-
Protect your eyes with proper safety glasses, thousands of eye injuries can be prevented each day if you wear proper eye protection
at home, in the workplace and while playing sports. Wear chemical safety goggles when using hazardous solvents and detergents.
Use appropriate lighting- Proper lighting can help improve safety in the home and prevent eye injuries.
Keep your children safe- Young children are curious pay special attention to where you place sharp
items that could cause eye damage such as cosmetics, kitchen utensils and desk supplies. Also, avoid flying or projectile
toys and any to with sharp points and dangerous edges.
Visit your eye doctor regularly- Everyone
should have a regular eye exam at least every 2 years whether you are having a noticeable problem or not. Diabetics should
have an eye exam every 6 months. Early detection of eye problems is key to treatment and prevention.
Reduce
eye fatigue- Using proper lighting when using the computer can greatly limit eye fatigue.
