Cataracts and Natural Preventative Measures

Some people believe cataracts are a contagious disease – this is false. Cataracts are simply the clouding of the eye’s lens. Inside of the eye there are large numbers of small proteins called crystalline. As individuals age the crystalline proteins age as well. They form protein clumps on the lens of eye which block light from objects from completely entering the eye. When the light is blocked the vision that the individual sees is blurry, fuzzy and faded.

There are many reasons for the aging of the crystalline proteins, some of which may be preventable. Cataract formation factors include:

Free radical damage
UV exposure
Diabetes and obesity
Long term use of corticosteroids

Free Radical Damage – Free radicals are scavenger molecules in the body which are on the constant prowl for an extra electron molecule. Most often they will swipe an electron from a healthy substance which in turn will become damaged and is usually destroyed.

In the lens of the eyes, the crystalline proteins are the ones that are quite frequently damaged by the actions of these free radicals. However, there are numerous steps that can be taken to limit the quantities of free radicals within the body in the first place.

Consume larger amounts of antioxidants. Antioxidants can be found in fresh fruits and vegetables. Major players include lutein and zeaxanthin (both known as carotenoids). They are present in eggs, most green vegetables, and squash.

Antioxidants can also be ingested through supplementation of Vitamins C, E and A, along with the trace mineral selenium. A good multi-vitamin should suffice.

Stop smoking and only consume alcohol in moderation. Both can increase the levels of free radicals in the body.

UV Exposure – Exposing unprotected eyes to direct UV light is a no-no. The UV rays can increase the deterioration rate of the proteins of the eyes. Additionally, UV rays have been implicated in the formation of free radicals as they tend to “oxidize” certain molecules within the body. When out in the sun, especially during the middle of the day, wear sunglasses with UV protection.

Diabetes and Obesity – One of the leading risk factors of cataract formation is the presence of an additional underlying disease such as diabetes. As obesity is the leading risk factor in developing diabetes it, too, must be controlled in order to keep the incident of cataract formation at a low level.

Diabetes tends to increase levels of sorbitol within the blood. Researchers believe that sorbitol can negatively affect the lens of the eye and eventually lead to the development of cataracts.

In addition, in patients with diabetes, the capillaries to the eyes can become damaged. When this occurs the quantity of nutrients arriving to the eye decreases and the levels of toxins and waste materials which can no longer leave the eye accumulate in the region. All of this impacts the eye and the lens negatively.

Following a healthy, nutritious and whole foods diet along with getting adequate levels of exercise each day will greatly decrease the chance of developing diabetes and becoming obese and subsequently will lower the risk of developing cataracts.

Long Term Use of Corticosteroids – Several recent studies have pointed out the correlation of using corticosteroids over a long period and the increased risk of developing cataracts. A problem arises for asthmatic patients who sometimes depend on inhaled corticosteroids to maintain functional breathing! Researchers are now looking further into the problem and assessing the situation. In some cases there may be alternate drugs which will suffice for the asthmatic patient while in other cases decreased use of inhaled corticosteroids may be suggested. However, it is NEVER wise to discontinue any form of medication without first speaking with your doctor.

To sum it up, by following a healthy and well balanced diet, the risk factors associated with developing cataracts as we age may be greatly diminished.

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