Cataract Prevention in the Produce Aisle!

 

Did you know that regularly enjoying a piece of fruit and a side of vegetables can help prevent vision loss from cataracts? Many Americans don’t eat enough fresh vegetables and fruits. Most of us know that these foods are important for avoiding heart disease, stroke and cancer but don’t associate diet with cataract prevention. Studies from the United States, Japan and Sweden show that a diet rich in foods with substances called antioxidants may reduce your risk of developing cataracts. Antioxidants protect our cells from damage caused by molecules called free radicals. That damage is called oxidation. Free radicals in our bodies may come from:

• the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays,
• tobacco smoke,
• pollution, and
• the body’s normal process of using energy.

Oxidation can lead to cataracts by causing changes to fats and proteins in the eye’s lens, making the lens cloudy. Antioxidants help slow down or prevent free radical damage. Antioxidants include vitamins C and E, certain substances in plants called flavonoids, and some minerals like selenium.

While you can take antioxidant supplements in the form of daily pills or capsules, these beneficial vitamins and minerals are best when they come from a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Loading up in the produce aisle and on your plate with fresh veggies and delicious fruits, knowing you are doing your eyes a favor!

A daily diet rich in fruits and vegetables may help prevent cataract formation. If you or someone you know is experiencing cataract symptoms such as cloudy foggy vision, glare or difficult night driving and would like to learn more about cataract surgery & lens implants please schedule an eye exam at The Eye Clinic of Texas, an affiliate of Houston Eye Associates, at 800-423-3937, visit The Eye Clinic of Texas, or facebook.com/ecot.lasik.

The Eye Clinic of Texas is an affiliate of Houston Eye Associates, the largest ophthalmology clinic in the nation. We are a leading eye care practice serving the greater Houston, Galveston, League City and Texas City with offices at 1100 Gulf Freeway, Suite 114, League City, Texas 77573, 7111 Medical Center Drive, Suite 110, Texas City, Texas 77590 and 2302 Avenue P, Galveston, Texas.