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Eight to ten million people
suffer from eye problems 1and many cases of eye
damage and vision loss are linked to underlying diseases of one
type or another, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Sun
exposure, tobacco smoke, and dehydration are other common causes
of eye problems.2
However, poor nutrition is
linked to nearly every cause of eye damage or loss of vision.3
From eyestrain to bags under the eyes, from bloodshot eyes to
blurred vision, nearly every irritation or trouble with the eyes
can be linked to the poor diet consumed by most people every
day. Our common American diet—high in foods laced with
chemicals and preservatives—is particularly detrimental to the
eyes.
With intense eyestrain from
computer work, inadequate light, environmental pollutants, the
need for eye-nourishing nutrients is even greater. Nicotine,
sugar and caffeine are also extremely detrimental, increasing
the need to provide nutritional support for the eyes. In fact, a
study reported in Science magazine reported that the single
greatest cause of cataracts is the body’s inability to cope
with milk sugar (lactose) and refined white sugar.4
Research shows that a deficiency
in nutrients can lead to various eye problems. Nutrition
can also help the eyes stay strong and/or heal. Dietary
factors have been shown to protect the retina from loss of
sensitivity.5 In another report, Snodderly
states that including more caretenoids in the diet (dark green
and orange fruits and vegetables) protect the eyes against light
damage.6 So supplementation is critical
to ensure that you are receiving the necessary nutrients for
healthy eye function and also to receive antioxidants to protect
against the damaging effects of free radicals. In a study
by the National Institute of Health in October 2001, high levels
of antioxidants and zinc were shown to significantly reduce the
risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration and vision
loss.7 Vitamin A is absolutely necessary for proper
eye function. Vitamins B,C, & E are also necessary in
healing and proper function.8
The Greatest Vitamin in the
World contains the highest quality nutrients to
improve your eye health (see Vitamins and Minerals). This
formula is a great source of all of the nutrients needed to
ensure optimal eye function.
This article courtesy of John Trout - www.vitamin4body.com
1. http://www.afb.org/
(American Foundation for the Blind).
2. Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing, 3rd Edition. p.
355-358.
3. Ibid.
4. Seddon, JM, et al. Dietary caretenoids, vitamins A,C,
&E, and advanced age related macular degeration. A
multicenter study. JAMA 1994, 272:1413-1420.
5. Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Feb, 1998,
Vol 39, No 2.
6. Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science, August, 1997;
38(9):1795-1801.
7. http://www.nih.gov/.
Antioxidant Vitamins and Zinc reduce risk of vision loss from
age related macular degeneration.
8. Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing, 3rd Edition. p. 356. |
