3 Simple Ways To Help Prevent Blindness

1 min

The leading cause of blindness in those over the age of 60 – affecting more than 13 million Americans – is macular degeneration. The health of the macula (an oval spot in the center of the retina that’s essential for central vision) depends on a very rich blood supply, and anything that interferes with circulation can cause damage to the macula and decrease its ability to function.

Unhealthy diet and lifestyle choices can reduce the supply of oxygen and vital nutrients to the eye, eventually leading to the death of cells in the retina and macula. To help prevent macular degeneration and other vision problems, consider the following:

1. Stop smoking or vaping. The nicotine in tobacco smoke and vape devices can decrease blood supply by causing a narrowing of the blood vessels and a thickening of the blood. This also includes minimizing your exposure to secondhand smoke.
2. Eat a diet low in sugar, flour, and oxidized oils (such as soybean oils used in processed foods and deep-fat frying). These all contribute to damage and plaque build-up along blood vessel walls, including those supplying the macula, which impedes blood flow. For the best ways to replace these foods, start with my Anti-Inflammatory Diet today!
3. Supplement. Studies show that taking a good dosage of the antioxidant carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin can help to prevent the development of macular degeneration. The dosage studied was 10mg of lutein and 2 mg of zeaxanthin. Also be sure to keep a steady dosage of omega-3 fatty acids from food sources like wild-caught salmon and fish oil supplements on board.

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