By Jacob Katel
Fall is here, supposedly. In Miami we've still got 90-degree days, and a monster electric bill.
But at least pumpkins are here again because despite what the weather would have you believe it is in fact "that time of year."
Here are some alleged pumpkin health benefits that'll have you going for the gourd:
"Pumpkins are high in lutein and zeaxanthin, which scavenge free radicals in the lens of the eye. Therefore, they may help prevent the formation of cataracts and reduce the risk of macular degeneration." [AssociatedContent]
The distinctive bright orange color of pumpkin clearly indicates that it's an excellent source of that all-important antioxidant beta-carotene. [HowStuffWorks]
Pumpkin seeds are high in protein, potassium, magnesium, zinc, iron, copper and essential fatty acids. [Dietobio]
Half cup of pumpkin seeds contains 92 percent of your daily value of magnesium, a mineral in which most Americans are deficient. [HealthDiaries]
Modern folk healers believe the pumpkin to be beneficial in ridding the body of intestinal worms and also believe the ground stem of the pumpkin brewed into a tea may help ease women during their menstrual cycle. [HubPages]
A full cup of pumpkin cut into cubes has only thirty delicious calories and almost no fat. [HealthMad]
Phytosterols are compounds found in plants that have a chemical structure very similar to cholesterol, and when present in the diet in sufficient amounts, are believed to reduce blood levels of cholesterol, enhance the immune response and decrease risk of certain cancers. [WHfoods]
The alpha-carotene and beta-carotene are potent antioxidants found in pumpkin and are pro-vitamin A carotenoids, meaning the body converts them to vitamin A.
For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Monday, October 5, 2009
Eye Supplements - Beyond Vitamin A
By: Rebecca Prescott
The eyes are something that many people take for granted, until disease or injury start to affect them, at which point your whole life can be seriously affected. Of course, there are some things, such as accidents and injuries, that can impact your eyes and will require specialist treatment. And in some cases there is nothing that can be done about problems that affect the eyes, such as genetic problems. However, we can look after our optical health in a number of other ways, and one important factor that can help to maintain them is nutrition.
There are a number of things that can affect the health of our eyes, some of which are out of our control and others that we can try and avoid. Some things that potentially increase the risk of eye problems include age, obesity, smoking, excessive exposure to sunlight, and even gender.
Whilst some people will be more at risk than others when it comes to poor eye health, it has been proven that nutrition does play an important role in the health of our vision, and this is therefore something that should be taken into account if you’re interested in preventing age related deterioration.
Studies have shown that certain foods contain antioxidants that can are particularly beneficial for our eyes. However, not everyone manages to eat as much fresh produce as they should to get these benefits. Often a busy lifestyle or other factors can affect the ability to eat a balanced diet. However, the wide range of vitamin supplements that are on the market today have made it easier for consumers to get their recommended daily allowance of vitamins and minerals, although those taking supplements should still try and eat as well as they can in order to maximize the benefits.
Some important supplements that have been identified in relation to eye health are vitamins A, C, and E. These are the antioxidant vitamins.
Vitamin A is well known for its’ role in night vision, but it is also important for preventing night blindness is pregnant women, and the health of our skin, hair and mucous membranes. It is found in animal products like liver, whole eggs, and milk.
Vitamin C helps reduce the risk of developing glaucoma, macular degeneration or cataracts. Bioflavanoids are available in combination with vitamin C in some supplements, and this is because they help the body absorb it. Vitamin E also helps reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
Other supplements that contribute to eye health include beta carotene, lutein, zinc oxide, selenium, and cupric oxide. Lutein is not as well known as some other supplements, but it is central to eye health. It is found in the retina, eye lens, and macula. People who smoke should be careful they get enough lutein, as smoking can affect its’ levels.
Smokers should also be aware that some studies have found that some of those participating who took beta carotene supplements and smoked were at risk of several diseases. These were only small studies however, but care should still be taken.
Eye supplements are a convenient way to get these nutrients, and often contain herbal preparations like bilberry. However, you should remember that exceeding the recommended doses can lead to side effects, so be aware of the total amount of each nutrient you are taking from multivitamins and any other supplements. This is of particular importance with fat soluble vitamins like vitamin A, though if you are not taking high doses of any vitamins you should be alright.
For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org
The eyes are something that many people take for granted, until disease or injury start to affect them, at which point your whole life can be seriously affected. Of course, there are some things, such as accidents and injuries, that can impact your eyes and will require specialist treatment. And in some cases there is nothing that can be done about problems that affect the eyes, such as genetic problems. However, we can look after our optical health in a number of other ways, and one important factor that can help to maintain them is nutrition.
There are a number of things that can affect the health of our eyes, some of which are out of our control and others that we can try and avoid. Some things that potentially increase the risk of eye problems include age, obesity, smoking, excessive exposure to sunlight, and even gender.
Whilst some people will be more at risk than others when it comes to poor eye health, it has been proven that nutrition does play an important role in the health of our vision, and this is therefore something that should be taken into account if you’re interested in preventing age related deterioration.
Studies have shown that certain foods contain antioxidants that can are particularly beneficial for our eyes. However, not everyone manages to eat as much fresh produce as they should to get these benefits. Often a busy lifestyle or other factors can affect the ability to eat a balanced diet. However, the wide range of vitamin supplements that are on the market today have made it easier for consumers to get their recommended daily allowance of vitamins and minerals, although those taking supplements should still try and eat as well as they can in order to maximize the benefits.
Some important supplements that have been identified in relation to eye health are vitamins A, C, and E. These are the antioxidant vitamins.
Vitamin A is well known for its’ role in night vision, but it is also important for preventing night blindness is pregnant women, and the health of our skin, hair and mucous membranes. It is found in animal products like liver, whole eggs, and milk.
Vitamin C helps reduce the risk of developing glaucoma, macular degeneration or cataracts. Bioflavanoids are available in combination with vitamin C in some supplements, and this is because they help the body absorb it. Vitamin E also helps reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
Other supplements that contribute to eye health include beta carotene, lutein, zinc oxide, selenium, and cupric oxide. Lutein is not as well known as some other supplements, but it is central to eye health. It is found in the retina, eye lens, and macula. People who smoke should be careful they get enough lutein, as smoking can affect its’ levels.
Smokers should also be aware that some studies have found that some of those participating who took beta carotene supplements and smoked were at risk of several diseases. These were only small studies however, but care should still be taken.
Eye supplements are a convenient way to get these nutrients, and often contain herbal preparations like bilberry. However, you should remember that exceeding the recommended doses can lead to side effects, so be aware of the total amount of each nutrient you are taking from multivitamins and any other supplements. This is of particular importance with fat soluble vitamins like vitamin A, though if you are not taking high doses of any vitamins you should be alright.
For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org
Friday, September 25, 2009
Eggcellent!
Eggs are rich in choline – a nutrient receiving much attention for its proposed role in brain function and memory performance. Additionally, eggs contain lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that can preserve eye health and reduce macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness [1].
Recently, the Journal of Nutrition suggested eggs be looked at as a “package deal” – they are inexpensive, contain the highest-quality protein known to man, and are loaded with vital nutrients such as folate, riboflavin, selenium, B12, and choline. For a mere 75 calories, eggs are considered nutrient-dense, low-calorie food that can enhance any menu [1].
But of course, shopping for eggs can be as tricky as every other food product in the grocery store. Free range versus organic versus this versus that. Here’s a Chicago Tribune run-down on 12 “egg terms” to increase your knowledge of eggs and egg shopping [2].
Natural: The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service defines "natural" as not containing "any artificial or synthetic ingredients, and it must be minimally processed." By this definition, almost all eggs would be considered natural.
Free range: Indicates that hens have access to the outdoors, but there are no regulations on the duration or quality of their access.
Pasteurized: Eggs that have been treated with heat to eliminate salmonella bacteria and make them safe to eat raw or undercooked.
Pasture raised: This unregulated term implies that hens are raised outdoors and moved regularly in mobile hen houses to different grassy lots on the farm. This gives them access to a variety of foods found on the ground -- bugs, grubs and other small creatures -- as well as chicken feed.
Fertile: Hens are raised in barns that also house roosters. The term is unregulated but implies that the hens are uncaged.
Food Alliance certified: According to Food Alliance, their certification requires "Healthy and humane treatment of animals, safe and fair working conditions, soil and water conservation, pest and nutrient management, protection of wildlife habitat and other agricultural concerns."
Animal Welfare Approved: Hens must be kept cage-free and allowed to perform natural behaviors such as nesting, perching and dust bathing. Outdoor access is required at all times, and forced molting and beak cutting are prohibited. Certifies mostly family farms.
American Humane Certified: Hens must be kept uncaged, but access to the outdoors is not required. Space requirements allow for natural behaviors. Forced molting is prohibited, but beak trimming is permitted in some cases. AHC has certified about 85 percent of cage-free eggs in the United States.
United Egg Producers Certified: This certification allows hens to be caged, does not require access to the outdoors and does not prohibit beak cutting or forced molting. It does require that hens have "access to clean water and are fed several times a day." The UEP literature suggests caged hens are safer and healthier than uncaged birds.
Certified Humane Raised and Handled: Hens are uncaged inside barns or warehouses and may have access to the outdoors. Includes space requirements for hens to perform natural behaviors. Forced molting is prohibited, but beak cutting is permitted.
USDA organic: Hens are kept uncaged in barns or warehouses, are allowed access to the outdoors and are fed an organic, vegetarian diet free of antibiotics and pesticides. Forced molting and beak cutting are permitted.
For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org
Recently, the Journal of Nutrition suggested eggs be looked at as a “package deal” – they are inexpensive, contain the highest-quality protein known to man, and are loaded with vital nutrients such as folate, riboflavin, selenium, B12, and choline. For a mere 75 calories, eggs are considered nutrient-dense, low-calorie food that can enhance any menu [1].
But of course, shopping for eggs can be as tricky as every other food product in the grocery store. Free range versus organic versus this versus that. Here’s a Chicago Tribune run-down on 12 “egg terms” to increase your knowledge of eggs and egg shopping [2].
Natural: The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service defines "natural" as not containing "any artificial or synthetic ingredients, and it must be minimally processed." By this definition, almost all eggs would be considered natural.
Free range: Indicates that hens have access to the outdoors, but there are no regulations on the duration or quality of their access.
Pasteurized: Eggs that have been treated with heat to eliminate salmonella bacteria and make them safe to eat raw or undercooked.
Pasture raised: This unregulated term implies that hens are raised outdoors and moved regularly in mobile hen houses to different grassy lots on the farm. This gives them access to a variety of foods found on the ground -- bugs, grubs and other small creatures -- as well as chicken feed.
Fertile: Hens are raised in barns that also house roosters. The term is unregulated but implies that the hens are uncaged.
Food Alliance certified: According to Food Alliance, their certification requires "Healthy and humane treatment of animals, safe and fair working conditions, soil and water conservation, pest and nutrient management, protection of wildlife habitat and other agricultural concerns."
Animal Welfare Approved: Hens must be kept cage-free and allowed to perform natural behaviors such as nesting, perching and dust bathing. Outdoor access is required at all times, and forced molting and beak cutting are prohibited. Certifies mostly family farms.
American Humane Certified: Hens must be kept uncaged, but access to the outdoors is not required. Space requirements allow for natural behaviors. Forced molting is prohibited, but beak trimming is permitted in some cases. AHC has certified about 85 percent of cage-free eggs in the United States.
United Egg Producers Certified: This certification allows hens to be caged, does not require access to the outdoors and does not prohibit beak cutting or forced molting. It does require that hens have "access to clean water and are fed several times a day." The UEP literature suggests caged hens are safer and healthier than uncaged birds.
Certified Humane Raised and Handled: Hens are uncaged inside barns or warehouses and may have access to the outdoors. Includes space requirements for hens to perform natural behaviors. Forced molting is prohibited, but beak cutting is permitted.
USDA organic: Hens are kept uncaged in barns or warehouses, are allowed access to the outdoors and are fed an organic, vegetarian diet free of antibiotics and pesticides. Forced molting and beak cutting are permitted.
For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org
Thursday, September 17, 2009
The Distinct Reward Of A Nutritional Regime That Is Rich In Items Of Produce
By Cheryl K Murphy
For many years it has been advised that we consume 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Fruits and vegetables can be very positive for our superior wellbeing like controlling weight, suppressing age-related difficulties and even the prevention of disease. It is projected that the normal American eats 3 or less servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
There is no dispute about the nutritional value ofproduce. Contrary to some other foods, the portion suggestions for produce are not attached to an monetary profit for farmers or producers but rather the advice is completely for the wellbeing advantages of the consumer.
If you incorporate more fruits and vegetables to your pattern of eating you can expect to obtain many health advantages such as anti-aging and even fat loss. Produce is especially high in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that are all imperative to your excellent wellbeing.
There are also precise wellbeing advantages to be gained from a diet elevated in produce. Your cardio system will run better. A recent study from Harvard found that for every further serving of fruits and vegetables eaten day by day the risk of heart disease is diminished by as much as 4%. If you consume the suggested 5 servings the threat of stroke is lowered by as much as 26% and just including an assortment of healthy and nutritious produce to your daily eating habits can show the way to significantly lower blood pressure.
Science is furthermore continuing to realize the relationship between extraordinary items of produce ingestion and the lessening of cancers and other ailments. Antioxidants that are plentiful in items of produce have been verified to be powerful for cancer and disease prevention. Many declines with illness are caused by from undue free radicals in our bodies. Antioxidants come in and deactivate free radicals thereby preventing the injury that they can begin.
Fruits and vegetables also offers an advantage for your eyesight and vision. Countless items of produce are high in vitamin A, which is valuable for your eyesight but study has also discovered that consuming as little as cup of leafy greens every day will bring down the hazard of macular degeneration by as much as 43%.
A pattern of eating rich in fruits and vegetables will too recover your digestive wellbeing. You will have more energy and you will be healthier and stronger all around. Seek to consume more nourishing and nutritious items of produce and steer clear of very processed foods, deep fried foods, sugars and all junk foods.
Adding in more items of produce to your each day pattern of eating can only benefit your health. Aim to get in at minimum 5 or even added servings. Items of produce are liable to be low in calories and high in fiber and satiety power so the more you can devour the better.
The most important advantages of a pattern of eating excessive in items of produce for a long and healthy life. You can get more information about acai at AcaiWow.com. Plus find out more about super foods.
For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org
For many years it has been advised that we consume 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Fruits and vegetables can be very positive for our superior wellbeing like controlling weight, suppressing age-related difficulties and even the prevention of disease. It is projected that the normal American eats 3 or less servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
There is no dispute about the nutritional value ofproduce. Contrary to some other foods, the portion suggestions for produce are not attached to an monetary profit for farmers or producers but rather the advice is completely for the wellbeing advantages of the consumer.
If you incorporate more fruits and vegetables to your pattern of eating you can expect to obtain many health advantages such as anti-aging and even fat loss. Produce is especially high in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that are all imperative to your excellent wellbeing.
There are also precise wellbeing advantages to be gained from a diet elevated in produce. Your cardio system will run better. A recent study from Harvard found that for every further serving of fruits and vegetables eaten day by day the risk of heart disease is diminished by as much as 4%. If you consume the suggested 5 servings the threat of stroke is lowered by as much as 26% and just including an assortment of healthy and nutritious produce to your daily eating habits can show the way to significantly lower blood pressure.
Science is furthermore continuing to realize the relationship between extraordinary items of produce ingestion and the lessening of cancers and other ailments. Antioxidants that are plentiful in items of produce have been verified to be powerful for cancer and disease prevention. Many declines with illness are caused by from undue free radicals in our bodies. Antioxidants come in and deactivate free radicals thereby preventing the injury that they can begin.
Fruits and vegetables also offers an advantage for your eyesight and vision. Countless items of produce are high in vitamin A, which is valuable for your eyesight but study has also discovered that consuming as little as cup of leafy greens every day will bring down the hazard of macular degeneration by as much as 43%.
A pattern of eating rich in fruits and vegetables will too recover your digestive wellbeing. You will have more energy and you will be healthier and stronger all around. Seek to consume more nourishing and nutritious items of produce and steer clear of very processed foods, deep fried foods, sugars and all junk foods.
Adding in more items of produce to your each day pattern of eating can only benefit your health. Aim to get in at minimum 5 or even added servings. Items of produce are liable to be low in calories and high in fiber and satiety power so the more you can devour the better.
The most important advantages of a pattern of eating excessive in items of produce for a long and healthy life. You can get more information about acai at AcaiWow.com. Plus find out more about super foods.
For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Popeye's spinach for good health
THERE WAS always a reason why mother encouraged you to eat your greens. Popeye took his daily dose of his favourite food, spinach, so he could boast of his muscular strength. We should be as smart as Popeye and eat more spinach in our diets.
Spinach has many health benefits and nutritional properties, yet it seems to be one of the most difficult vegetables to serve to picky children and adults. This slightly intimidating vegetable can be delicious if cooked in ways to allow you to get the most out of your greens.
The history of spinach dates back to fourth-century Persia when it made its way to China and Europe before arriving in the United States, now one of the vegetable's largest producers. Popular a la Florentine dishes pay tribute to spinach's royal heritage as the favourite vegetable of Catherine de Medici.
Health benefits of spinach
Popeye may have gained more benefit from spinach than just pumping up instant muscles. The bright green leafy vegetable also helped him fight off osteoporosis, heart disease, arthritis and several types of cancer. Spinach is also packed with vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants - ranking third behind garlic and another kale, another green.
In general, spinach is extremely beneficial to one's health for the following reasons:
Prevents eye disease: Spinach is good for eye disease, protecting against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), an eye disease affecting elderly people. Years of exposure to sunlight can damage the centre of your eye's retina, leading to macular degeneration and blindness.
Spinach has a detoxifying effect.
Cures gum diseases.
Cures anaemia.
Spinach is useful in the fight against cancer.
Thirteen different flavanoids that function as antioxidants and anti-cancer agents are found in spinach, Researchers have created specialised spinach extracts to use in controlled studies where they have been found to slow down cell division in stomach cancer cells, reduce skin cancers and reduce the incidence of breast, ovarian and prostate cancers.
Consuming spinach contributes to reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Calcium in spinach prevents osteoporosis. Spinach also contains other bone-building nutrients such as calcium and magnesium.
Spinach gives a boost of energy with a high dosage of iron. However, spinach contains a chemical called oxalic acid, which binds with iron and calcium and reduces the amount your body can take in of these minerals. To improve iron absorption, eat your spinach with vitamin C-rich foods such as orange juice, tomatoes and citrus fruit.
For more information go to: www.maculardegenerationassociation.org
Spinach has many health benefits and nutritional properties, yet it seems to be one of the most difficult vegetables to serve to picky children and adults. This slightly intimidating vegetable can be delicious if cooked in ways to allow you to get the most out of your greens.
The history of spinach dates back to fourth-century Persia when it made its way to China and Europe before arriving in the United States, now one of the vegetable's largest producers. Popular a la Florentine dishes pay tribute to spinach's royal heritage as the favourite vegetable of Catherine de Medici.
Health benefits of spinach
Popeye may have gained more benefit from spinach than just pumping up instant muscles. The bright green leafy vegetable also helped him fight off osteoporosis, heart disease, arthritis and several types of cancer. Spinach is also packed with vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants - ranking third behind garlic and another kale, another green.
In general, spinach is extremely beneficial to one's health for the following reasons:
Prevents eye disease: Spinach is good for eye disease, protecting against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), an eye disease affecting elderly people. Years of exposure to sunlight can damage the centre of your eye's retina, leading to macular degeneration and blindness.
Spinach has a detoxifying effect.
Cures gum diseases.
Cures anaemia.
Spinach is useful in the fight against cancer.
Thirteen different flavanoids that function as antioxidants and anti-cancer agents are found in spinach, Researchers have created specialised spinach extracts to use in controlled studies where they have been found to slow down cell division in stomach cancer cells, reduce skin cancers and reduce the incidence of breast, ovarian and prostate cancers.
Consuming spinach contributes to reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Calcium in spinach prevents osteoporosis. Spinach also contains other bone-building nutrients such as calcium and magnesium.
Spinach gives a boost of energy with a high dosage of iron. However, spinach contains a chemical called oxalic acid, which binds with iron and calcium and reduces the amount your body can take in of these minerals. To improve iron absorption, eat your spinach with vitamin C-rich foods such as orange juice, tomatoes and citrus fruit.
For more information go to: www.maculardegenerationassociation.org
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
The food you eat can save your eyesight
Have you wondered if your mom was right all along, and fish oil really is good for you? Wonder no more...studies show that fish oil, and many other foods and supplements can help your eyes remain healthy, and will also help you see better longer.
Proper nutrients can have significant impact on prevention of the following eye conditions:
• Dry eyes – Healthy tear film has 3 layers: mucin, the lubricant layer closest to the eye surface, aqueous, the intermediate layer, and lipid, the superficial layer of long chain fatty acids that protect aqueous layer from evaporating. Proper functioning of oil glands on the lid margins is necessary to maintain healthy lipid layer. Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids can help proper functioning of the oil glands and decrease eyelid inflammation.
• Cataracts – Oxidative stress is associated with cataract formation. Dietary anti-oxidants; vitamin C, E, and caratenoids have been associated with decreased risk of cataract formation.
• Macular degeneration – excellent vision is possible well into the golden years, providing the retina remains healthy. Age Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), found that a combination consisting of vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin helped those with intermediate or advanced macular degeneration. In addition, maintaining low glycemic blood index by consuming a diet rich in “good” carbohydrates, such as whole grains, helps protect the eyes from developing macular degeneration
.
Proper nutrients can improve healing after LASIK and PRK laser vision correction eye surgery.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid supplements started a week prior to surgery and continued for at least three weeks after, improve tear film and reduce dryness after laser vision correction.
• Consider supplements formulated specifically for maintaining healthy tear film, such as Hydroeyes (www.sciencebasedhealth.com), for example.
Do’s and don’ts of nutritional supplements
• Do maintain appropriate balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in your diet. Too much omega-6 fatty acids; the typical American diet rich in meat and not enough grains and vegetables, may not be healthy, while a diet maintaining a 1:4 ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid is more appropriate for eye health. This diet is typical in Mediterranean countries and includes a generous amount of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, olive oil, and garlic.
• Do make sure to take the right kind of omega-6 fatty acid supplements – gamma linolelenic acid (GLA). GLA comes from several plant-based oils including evening primrose oil (EPO), borage oil, and black currant seed oil.
• Don’t exceed recommended daily doses of vitamins, especially Vitamin A. In the AREDS study, these were the vitamin doses that were found to reduce the age related macular degeneration: Vitamin C - 250 mg; Vitamin E - 400 IU; Vitamin A (as beta-carotene) - 15 mg; Zinc (as zinc oxide) - 80 mg; Copper (as cupric oxide) - 2 mg.
• Don’t count on nutritional supplements to treat cataracts. Once cataracts develop, the only cure is surgery.
Proper nutrients can have significant impact on prevention of the following eye conditions:
• Dry eyes – Healthy tear film has 3 layers: mucin, the lubricant layer closest to the eye surface, aqueous, the intermediate layer, and lipid, the superficial layer of long chain fatty acids that protect aqueous layer from evaporating. Proper functioning of oil glands on the lid margins is necessary to maintain healthy lipid layer. Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids can help proper functioning of the oil glands and decrease eyelid inflammation.
• Cataracts – Oxidative stress is associated with cataract formation. Dietary anti-oxidants; vitamin C, E, and caratenoids have been associated with decreased risk of cataract formation.
• Macular degeneration – excellent vision is possible well into the golden years, providing the retina remains healthy. Age Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), found that a combination consisting of vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin helped those with intermediate or advanced macular degeneration. In addition, maintaining low glycemic blood index by consuming a diet rich in “good” carbohydrates, such as whole grains, helps protect the eyes from developing macular degeneration
.
Proper nutrients can improve healing after LASIK and PRK laser vision correction eye surgery.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid supplements started a week prior to surgery and continued for at least three weeks after, improve tear film and reduce dryness after laser vision correction.
• Consider supplements formulated specifically for maintaining healthy tear film, such as Hydroeyes (www.sciencebasedhealth.com), for example.
Do’s and don’ts of nutritional supplements
• Do maintain appropriate balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in your diet. Too much omega-6 fatty acids; the typical American diet rich in meat and not enough grains and vegetables, may not be healthy, while a diet maintaining a 1:4 ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid is more appropriate for eye health. This diet is typical in Mediterranean countries and includes a generous amount of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, olive oil, and garlic.
• Do make sure to take the right kind of omega-6 fatty acid supplements – gamma linolelenic acid (GLA). GLA comes from several plant-based oils including evening primrose oil (EPO), borage oil, and black currant seed oil.
• Don’t exceed recommended daily doses of vitamins, especially Vitamin A. In the AREDS study, these were the vitamin doses that were found to reduce the age related macular degeneration: Vitamin C - 250 mg; Vitamin E - 400 IU; Vitamin A (as beta-carotene) - 15 mg; Zinc (as zinc oxide) - 80 mg; Copper (as cupric oxide) - 2 mg.
• Don’t count on nutritional supplements to treat cataracts. Once cataracts develop, the only cure is surgery.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Macular Degeneration Nutrition
To treat AMD
* AREDS formula (vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and zinc, plus copper) — The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) found that a combination of antioxidant vitamins plus zinc helped slow the progression of intermediate macular degeneration to an advanced stage, which is when most vision loss occurs. The National Eye Institute recommends that people with intermediate AMD in one or both eyes or with advanced AMD (wet or dry) in one eye but not the other take this formulation each day. However, this combination of nutrients did not help prevent AMD nor did it slow progression of the disease in those with early AMD. The doses of nutrients are:
o Vitamin C (500 mg per day)
o Vitamin E (400 IU per day)
o Beta-carotene (15 mg per day, or 25,000 IU of vitamin A)
o Zinc (80 mg per day)
o Copper (2 mg per day, to prevent copper deficiency that can occur when taking extra zinc)
Ocuvite PreserVision is formulated to contain the proper amounts of these nutrients. People who already take a multivitamin should let their doctor know before taking this formulation. Zinc can be harmful at a dose of 80 mg, so be sure to take this combination only under your doctor’s supervision.
* Lutein and zeaxanthin — High levels of these two carotinoids (antioxidants that give plants orange, red, or yellow color) in your blood may help protect against AMD, either by acting as antioxidants or by protecting the macula from damage from light. One study found that people with AMD who took lutein alone or in combination with other antioxidants had less vision loss, while those who took placebo had no change. However, another study failed to find any benefit from lutein. Egg yolks, spinach and corn have high concentrations of lutein and zeaxanthin.
To prevent AMD
* Leafy greens — People who eat dark, leafy greens such as spinach, kale, collard greens, and watercress tend to have a lower risk of AMD.
* Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) — In a study of more than 3,000 people over the age of 49, those who ate more fish were less likely to have AMD than those who ate fewer fish. Another larger study found that consuming docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), two types of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, four or more times per week may reduce the risk of developing AMD. However, this same study suggests that alpha-linolenic acid (ALA; another type of omega-3 fatty acid) may actually increase the risk of AMD. Adding more fish to your diet is safe; but talk to your doctor before taking fish oil supplements if you are at risk for AMD.
Herbs
The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a healthcare practitioner.
* Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba, 160 mg to 240 mg per day) — Ginkgo contains flavonoids, which researchers think may also help AMD. Two studies showed that people with AMD who took ginkgo were able to slow their vision loss. Ginkgo can increase the risk of bleeding, so people who take anticoagulants (blood-thinners) should not take ginkgo without talking to their doctor. may help halt or lessen some retinal problems. Clinical studies suggest that it may be useful in treating vision problems specifically due to macular degeneration. If you use anticoagulants, do not use ginkgo without close monitoring by your healthcare provider.
* Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus, 120 to 240 mg two times per day) and grape seed (Vitis vinifera, 50 to 150 mg per day) are also high in flavonoids, so researchers speculate that they may help prevent and treat AMD. However, so far no studies have looked at using bilberry or grape seed to treat AMD.
* AREDS formula (vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and zinc, plus copper) — The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) found that a combination of antioxidant vitamins plus zinc helped slow the progression of intermediate macular degeneration to an advanced stage, which is when most vision loss occurs. The National Eye Institute recommends that people with intermediate AMD in one or both eyes or with advanced AMD (wet or dry) in one eye but not the other take this formulation each day. However, this combination of nutrients did not help prevent AMD nor did it slow progression of the disease in those with early AMD. The doses of nutrients are:
o Vitamin C (500 mg per day)
o Vitamin E (400 IU per day)
o Beta-carotene (15 mg per day, or 25,000 IU of vitamin A)
o Zinc (80 mg per day)
o Copper (2 mg per day, to prevent copper deficiency that can occur when taking extra zinc)
Ocuvite PreserVision is formulated to contain the proper amounts of these nutrients. People who already take a multivitamin should let their doctor know before taking this formulation. Zinc can be harmful at a dose of 80 mg, so be sure to take this combination only under your doctor’s supervision.
* Lutein and zeaxanthin — High levels of these two carotinoids (antioxidants that give plants orange, red, or yellow color) in your blood may help protect against AMD, either by acting as antioxidants or by protecting the macula from damage from light. One study found that people with AMD who took lutein alone or in combination with other antioxidants had less vision loss, while those who took placebo had no change. However, another study failed to find any benefit from lutein. Egg yolks, spinach and corn have high concentrations of lutein and zeaxanthin.
To prevent AMD
* Leafy greens — People who eat dark, leafy greens such as spinach, kale, collard greens, and watercress tend to have a lower risk of AMD.
* Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) — In a study of more than 3,000 people over the age of 49, those who ate more fish were less likely to have AMD than those who ate fewer fish. Another larger study found that consuming docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), two types of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, four or more times per week may reduce the risk of developing AMD. However, this same study suggests that alpha-linolenic acid (ALA; another type of omega-3 fatty acid) may actually increase the risk of AMD. Adding more fish to your diet is safe; but talk to your doctor before taking fish oil supplements if you are at risk for AMD.
Herbs
The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a healthcare practitioner.
* Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba, 160 mg to 240 mg per day) — Ginkgo contains flavonoids, which researchers think may also help AMD. Two studies showed that people with AMD who took ginkgo were able to slow their vision loss. Ginkgo can increase the risk of bleeding, so people who take anticoagulants (blood-thinners) should not take ginkgo without talking to their doctor. may help halt or lessen some retinal problems. Clinical studies suggest that it may be useful in treating vision problems specifically due to macular degeneration. If you use anticoagulants, do not use ginkgo without close monitoring by your healthcare provider.
* Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus, 120 to 240 mg two times per day) and grape seed (Vitis vinifera, 50 to 150 mg per day) are also high in flavonoids, so researchers speculate that they may help prevent and treat AMD. However, so far no studies have looked at using bilberry or grape seed to treat AMD.
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