By: Administration
Professionals who understand nutrition have proclaimed that Vitamin D deficiency is epidemic! But what is Vitamin D? It is a group of fat soluable vitamins. The two major forms of Vitamin D are D-2 (also known as ergocalciferol if you are into biology) and D-3 (cholecalciferol). D-2 is synthesized by plants. D-3 is synthesized by humans in the skin when exposed to ultraviolet-b rays of sunlight.
Vitamin D is essential for your body! For more than a century, scientists believed it played a vital role in bone health. It functions to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. It promotes calcium absorption in the gut. This is important because it enables healthy mineralization of bones and healthy bone growth. Humans cannot digest calcium without Vitamin D-3.
Does Vitamin D make you smarter? Some researchers say “yes!” 1.
But Vitamin D does so much more! It also assists your immune system. It does this through cellar differentiation which leads to decreased proliferation. Stay with me here, this is really pretty simple. Proliferation in general is good as it helps wounds heal. But uncontrolled proliferation of cells may lead to cancer. Vitamin D inhibits the bad proliferation and stimulates differentiation.
Classical Vitamin D deficiencies include adults who complain of dull and achy musculoskeletal pain. Such pain is usually unresponsive to both pharmaceutical and manual treatments. Also among children deprived of Vitamin D is the classical case of rickets.
But did you know Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to the following conditions?
High blood pressure
Fibromyalgia
Diabetes
Multiple sclerosis
Rheumatoid arthritis
An increased risk of pre-eclampsia and insulin resistance during pregnancy
Increased risk of early age-related macular degeneration. 2-5
Researchers who have no financial interest in supplements are pleading with people to get more Vitamin D. 6. So how do you get Vitamin D? Getting 10-20 minutes of sunlight helps. I heard one professional suggest (tongue-in-cheek) that people get their D by sunning nude for 15-20 minutes. No thanks J. Experts argue that sunlight does not give you enough D and many people are concerned about skin cancer. Besides, as we age, we are less equipped to produce sufficient quantities of D. If you think tanning beds are the answer, sorry. Tanning beds do not provide D-3.
Most foods do not have adequate D. Consequently it is supplemented with D. Unfortunately manufacturers keep their costs down by using the less expensive form, synthetic D-2. This will never work because our bodies will never absorb the synthetic as well as a natural vitamin and we need D-3. If you want to eat your D try cold water fish. Wild salmon, mackerel, and sardines are good. Egg yolks are also a source. Unfortunately I also hear nutritionists say to avoid the fish because of heavy metals and avoid egg yolks because of the fat.
Personally I recommend GBG’s 10-In-One Liquid Multi Formula. It has an excellent source of D-3. Your body will absorb it better than any synthetic vitamin made in a laboratory and it is a complete phytonutreint/antioxidant blend that tastes good.
This article is not meant to treat or diagnose any illnesses or medical conditions.
Resources
1. Przybelski RJ, Binkley NC. Is Vitamin D Important For Preserving Cognition? A Positive Correlation Of Serum 25-Hyroxy Vitamin D Concentration With Cognitive Function. Arch bioChem Biophys. 2007 Apr 15; 460(2): 202-5.
2. Vieth R, Bischoff-Ferrari H, Beucher BJ, Dawson-Hughes B, Gruland CF, Heany RP, Holick MF. The Urgent Need To Recommend An Intake Of Vitamin D That Is Effective. American Journal Of Clinical Nutrition, March 2007; 85(3): 649-650
3. Badnar Lm, Captov JM, Simhan HN, Holick MF, Maternal Vitamin D Deficiency Increases Risk Of Preeclamsia, J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2007 May 29.
4. Maghbooli Z, Hossein-Nezhad A, Karini F, Shafaei AR, Larijani B. Correlation Between Vitamin D(3) Deficiency And Insulin resistance In Pregnancy. Diabetes Metab Res Rev. 2007 Jul 2.
5. Parekh n, Chappell Rj, Millen AE, Albert DM, Mares JA. Association Between Vitamin D and Age Related Macular Degeneration In The Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988 Through 1994. Arch Ophthalmol. May 2007; 125:661-669
6. Lappe J, tavers-Gustafson D, Davies K, Recker R, Heany R. Vitamin D and Calcium Supplementation Reduces Cancer Risk: Results Of A Randomized Trial. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. June 8: 85(6): 1586-1591.
7. Holick MF, Vitamin D: Importance In Prevention Of Cancers, Type 1 Diabetes, Heart Disease, And Osteoporsis. AM J Clin Nutr. 2004: 79(3): 362-371.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Vision Nutrients cross references to specific diseases
by:Natural Eye Care
Here is an outline of vision nutrients with cross references to specific diseases and recommended products.
Amino Acids
Cysteine – is important for a healthy retina. Taken as N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), it increases production of gluatathione, one of the most important antioxidants in the eye.
* Food Sources: Eggs.
* Other sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 500-1000 mg in the form of N-acetyl cysteine daily.
* Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma, Cataracts
* Recommended Products: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, Pure Focus
Taurine – normally found in high concentrations in the retina, it is important to for the maintenance of vision and the regeneration of worn out tissues of the visual system.
* Food Sources: Eggs, fish.
* Other sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 500 daily.
* Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma
* Recommended Product(s): Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, Liquid Taurine
Bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids are neither vitamins or minerals, but plant pigments that protect the eyes from sunlight damage, and are powerful antioxidants that my enhance blood flow to the retina while fighting free radical damage.
Quercitin, Rutin - quercitin has properties similar to melanin, and protects the eye from damage by solar radiation and works synergistically with taurine and vitamin E. Rutin has been shown to reduce leakage from small blood vessels in the retina. It is valuable in fighting free radicals.
* Food Sources: Cherries, white grapefruit, apples, pears, grapes, cranberries, red onions, green cabbage, spinach, kale, onions, garlic.
* Other sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 1000 mg of quercetin daily, 300 mg rutin daily.
* Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma, Diabetic Retinopathy , Cataracts
* Recommended Products: Optic Nerve Formula , Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula
Carotenoids
Carotenoids are organic pigments that are naturally occurring in plants and some other photosynthetic organisms like algae, some types of fungus and some bacteria. There are over 600 known carotenoids; they are split into two classes, xanthophylls and carotenes. They are potent antioxidants and play a protective role in preventing many eye conditions.
Bilberry – is the European version of the blueberry, and has been called the vision herb for its powerful effect on all types visual disorders.
* Food Sources: Huckleberry
* Recommended Dose: 240-300 mg daily.
* Eye Conditions: Poor Night Vision, Glaucoma, Myopia , Macular Degeneration , Diabetic Retinopathy , Cataracts , Computer Eye Syndrome
* Recommended Products: Pure Focus, Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula
Lutein – is the yellow pigment found in the macula. It protects against macular degeneration, and protects the rods and cones from free radical damage from UV light.
* Food Sources: corn, spinach, kale, collard and mustard greens, lettuce and other salad greens, broccoli, brussel sprouts, corn and eggs.
* Recommended Dose: 6-20 mg daily
* Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Cataracts
* Recommended Products: Pure Focus, Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula
Zeaxanthin – is found in high amounts in the macula. It protects against macular degeneration, and protects the rods and cones from free radical damage from UV light.
* Food Sources: corn, spinach, kale, collard and mustard greens, lettuce and other salad greens, broccoli, oranges, tangerines and peas.
* Recommended Dose: 3 mg daily for prevention, and up to 20 mg per day therapeutically.
* Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration and other macula disorders
Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s)
Omega 3 Fatty Acids - fats are essential for nerve conduction in the retina and to reduce cholesterol.
* Food Sources: Cold water fish (including salmon, tuna, mackerel, halibut), flax seed oil, black current oil, walnuts and walnut oils, dark leafy vegetables, eggs (from free range chickens preferred), spices (including mustard, fennel, cumin and Fenugreek).
* Recommended Dose: 1500 mg daily
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration
* Recommended Products: Carlson's Fish Oil, BioTears
* Notes: Any time oils are increased in the diet, for example by eating nuts or using lots of cooking oils, be sure to increase intake of vitamins A, B3, B6, C, E and minerals zinc, selenium, and manganese for proper absorption.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids – are important to protect cells from degenerative changes and to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
* Food Sources: Human mother’s milk, evening primrose, borage and black currant oils.
* Recommended Dose: 1500 mg daily
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration
* Recommended Products: Carlson's Fish Oil, BioTears
Minerals
Chromium – helps regulate blood sugar, circulation and fat metabolism, and helps prevent nearsightedness, a risk factor for vitreous degeneration and floaters.
* Food Sources: Brewer’s yeast, eggs, potato skins.
* Other Sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 200 mcg daily.
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration , Diabetic Retinopathy
* Recommended Product: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula
* Note: Chromium reduces the blood sugar levels of diabetics, and may require the patient to adjust the insulin dose accordingly.
Magnesium – is a mineral that relaxes smooth muscles and helps prevent muscle spasms. Smooth muscles are what regulate the outflow of aqueous humor from the inner eye.
* Food Sources: Almonds, wheat germ, green leafy vegetables.
* Recommended Dose: 500 mg daily.
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Blepharospasm (twitching of the eyelids), Keratoconus
* Other Conditions: Also good for migraines
* Recommended Products: Optic Nerve Formula , Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, BioTears
* Note: If you are taking antibiotics, do not take magnesium because it interferes with the antibiotics effectiveness.
Selenium – makes sure that glutathione is doing its job. It does this so well that patients with macular degeneration have reported improved vision after taking selenium and vitamin E.
* Food Sources: Garlic, onions, broccoli, cabbage, brown rice, eggs, shrimp, sunflower seeds, tuna, chicken, brazil nuts, wheat.
* Other Sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 200 mcg daily.
* Eye Conditions: Cataracts, Macular Degeneration , Diabetic Retinopathy
* Recommended Products: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, Optic Nerve Formula
Zinc – has been shown to stabilize and even improve vision in people with macular degeneration.
* Food Sources: Barley, wheat, chicken, crab, oysters, lamb, beef, turkey.
* Other Sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 30 mg daily.
* Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma, Cataracts, , Poor Night Vision, Floaters
* Recommended Product: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula
* Note: Zinc deficiencies can result from the following:
1. excessive sweating,
2. high fiber diets can bind zinc and prevent its absorption,
3. phosphates in soda interfere with zinc,
4. coffee drinking can produce zinc deficiency.
* Zinc supplement should not be taken with copper, iron, calcium or fiber (which bind the zinc and make it unusable). Copper is inhibited by zinc, so if zinc supplements are used, 2 mg of copper should be taken daily.
Other Nutrients
Alpha Lipoic Acid plays a crucial role in the mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, and it helps deactivate an unusually wide array of cell-damaging free radicals. This is an essential nutrient for the eyes. A recent research study suggested that the alpha-R form is the most bioavailable.
* Food Sources: Good food sources of alpha lipoic acid include spinach, broccoli, beef, yeast (particularly Brewer's yeast), and certain organ meats (such as the kidney and heart).
* Other Sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 300 mg per day or 150 mg per day of Alpha-R Lipoic Acid, or more as prescribed by your health care professional.
* Recommended Product: Alpha Lipoic Acid
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration , Diabetic Retinopathy , Cataracts
Garlic – helps prevent blood clots from forming in the small blood vessels of the retina.
* Food Sources: Fresh garlic cloves
* Other Sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 1000 mg of garlic powder, 20 mg of garlic oil, 3 cloves per day.
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration , Diabetic Retinopathy , Cataracts
* Recommended Product: Garlic Tablets
* Note: Garlic contains cysteine, methione, and glutathione. It reduces cholesterol, thins the blood without the side effects of aspirin, reduces blood pressure, and is used as a natural antibiotic.
Coenzyme Q10 (also called CoQ10) helps cells breakdown food into energy, and improves heart function and overall blood circulation.
* Food Sources: The best sources of CoQ10 are animal muscle tissues, but many people prefer not to eat this type of food. It is also found in vegetables, particularly spinach and broccoli, but it is easily destroyed in the cooking process.
* Other Sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 30 mg per day, or more as prescribed by your health care professional.
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration , Diabetic Retinopathy , Cataracts
* Recommended Product: Coenzyme Q10
Vitamins
Vitamin A – we usually recommend taking vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A with a small amount of fat in the diet.
o Food Sources: Yellow and orange vegetables, including yams, carrots and sweet potatoes, asparagus, spinach, butternut squash, kale, bok choy, mangoes, cataloupe, apricots.
o Other Sources: Supplements
o Recommended Dose: Approximately 15,000 to 25,000 I.U. of beta-carotene daily.
o Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma, Cataracts, Dry Eyes
o Recommended Products: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, BioTears, Vitamin A
o Note: If you have a low thyroid problem, diabetes or problems with fat absorption, beta-carotene may have difficulty converting to vitamin A.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) – aids in the reception of light by the retina, and is necessary for glutathione production.
+ Food Sources: Brewer’s yeast, beans, wheat germ, whole grains, almonds.
+ Other Sources: Supplements
+ Recommended Dose: 10 mg daily.
+ Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma, Cataracts, Dry Eyes
+ Recommended Product(s): Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin
+ Note: If deficient in vitamin B2, it may help with the following conditions: 1) soreness around the eyes, 2) eyes tiring easily, 3) sensitivity to light, 4) dry eyes, 5) cataracts, 6) conjuntivitus, 7) macular degeneration, 8) styes.
Folic Acid - also called folacin and folate, is a water soluble B-vitamin that helps build healthy cells. "Water soluble" means it does not stay in your body for very long, so you need to take it every day to help prevent neural tube defects. During periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy and fetal development, the body's requirement for this vitamin increases.
+ Food Sources: Green leafy vegetables, and broccoli.
+ Other Sources: Supplements
+ Recommended Dose: 400 mcg daily.
+ Eye Conditions: Cataracts
+ Recommended Product(s): Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, Folic Acid
+ Notes: Should be taken with vitamin B12 and Zinc.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) – found to be deficient in almost all persons with macular degeneration. B6 aids in the proper absorption of magnesium, and has a diuretic effect which helps decrease eye pressure.
+ Food Sources: Avocados, bananas, brewer’s yeast, carrots, brown rice, wheat germ, sunflower seeds.
+ Other Sources: Supplements
+ Recommended Dose: 50 mg daily.
+ Eye Conditions: Dry Eyes
+ Recommended Products: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, BioTears
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) seems to improve or prevent the worsening of eyesight in glaucoma patients, apparently by preventing the degeneration of the fatty layer surrounding the nerve cells called the myelin sheath.
+ Food Sources: Eggs, sardines, clams, mackerel.
+ Other Sources: Supplements
+ Recommended Dose: up to 1,000 mcg per day (therapeutic dosage). RDA is 5 mcg per day.
+ Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Optic Nerve Problems
+ Recommended Product: Vital Eyes Complete
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is the queen of antioxidants, helping neutralize free radicals, plus serves as a natural ultraviolet filter inside the eye. The eye has the second highest concentration of Vitamin C in the body next to the adrenal glands.
+ Food Sources: Broccoli, green cabbage, bell peppers, red peppers, kale, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, tangerines, kiwi fruit, oranges, lemons, papayas.
+ Other Sources: Supplements
+ Recommended Dose: 500-3000 mg daily.
+ Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, Cataracts, Dry Eyes
+ Recommended Products: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, BioTears
+ Note: Large doses of vitamin C may cause diarrhea. If so, reduce the dosage.
Vitamin E is another antioxidant that helps reduce eye pressure. Choose the natural “d” form, not the synthetic “dl” form.
+ Food Sources: Wheat germ, brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, almonds, broccoli, mangoes, avocados.
+ Other Sources: Supplements
+ Recommended Dose: 400-500 I.U.’s daily.
+ Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma, Cataracts
+ Recommended Products: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, Pure Focus
+ Notes: If you are taking blood thinning drugs, consult with your physician due to the fact that vitamin E thins the blood. Note that vitamin E also has been shown to reduce the need for insulin among diabetics.
Here is an outline of vision nutrients with cross references to specific diseases and recommended products.
Amino Acids
Cysteine – is important for a healthy retina. Taken as N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), it increases production of gluatathione, one of the most important antioxidants in the eye.
* Food Sources: Eggs.
* Other sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 500-1000 mg in the form of N-acetyl cysteine daily.
* Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma, Cataracts
* Recommended Products: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, Pure Focus
Taurine – normally found in high concentrations in the retina, it is important to for the maintenance of vision and the regeneration of worn out tissues of the visual system.
* Food Sources: Eggs, fish.
* Other sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 500 daily.
* Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma
* Recommended Product(s): Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, Liquid Taurine
Bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids are neither vitamins or minerals, but plant pigments that protect the eyes from sunlight damage, and are powerful antioxidants that my enhance blood flow to the retina while fighting free radical damage.
Quercitin, Rutin - quercitin has properties similar to melanin, and protects the eye from damage by solar radiation and works synergistically with taurine and vitamin E. Rutin has been shown to reduce leakage from small blood vessels in the retina. It is valuable in fighting free radicals.
* Food Sources: Cherries, white grapefruit, apples, pears, grapes, cranberries, red onions, green cabbage, spinach, kale, onions, garlic.
* Other sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 1000 mg of quercetin daily, 300 mg rutin daily.
* Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma, Diabetic Retinopathy , Cataracts
* Recommended Products: Optic Nerve Formula , Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula
Carotenoids
Carotenoids are organic pigments that are naturally occurring in plants and some other photosynthetic organisms like algae, some types of fungus and some bacteria. There are over 600 known carotenoids; they are split into two classes, xanthophylls and carotenes. They are potent antioxidants and play a protective role in preventing many eye conditions.
Bilberry – is the European version of the blueberry, and has been called the vision herb for its powerful effect on all types visual disorders.
* Food Sources: Huckleberry
* Recommended Dose: 240-300 mg daily.
* Eye Conditions: Poor Night Vision, Glaucoma, Myopia , Macular Degeneration , Diabetic Retinopathy , Cataracts , Computer Eye Syndrome
* Recommended Products: Pure Focus, Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula
Lutein – is the yellow pigment found in the macula. It protects against macular degeneration, and protects the rods and cones from free radical damage from UV light.
* Food Sources: corn, spinach, kale, collard and mustard greens, lettuce and other salad greens, broccoli, brussel sprouts, corn and eggs.
* Recommended Dose: 6-20 mg daily
* Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Cataracts
* Recommended Products: Pure Focus, Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula
Zeaxanthin – is found in high amounts in the macula. It protects against macular degeneration, and protects the rods and cones from free radical damage from UV light.
* Food Sources: corn, spinach, kale, collard and mustard greens, lettuce and other salad greens, broccoli, oranges, tangerines and peas.
* Recommended Dose: 3 mg daily for prevention, and up to 20 mg per day therapeutically.
* Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration and other macula disorders
Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s)
Omega 3 Fatty Acids - fats are essential for nerve conduction in the retina and to reduce cholesterol.
* Food Sources: Cold water fish (including salmon, tuna, mackerel, halibut), flax seed oil, black current oil, walnuts and walnut oils, dark leafy vegetables, eggs (from free range chickens preferred), spices (including mustard, fennel, cumin and Fenugreek).
* Recommended Dose: 1500 mg daily
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration
* Recommended Products: Carlson's Fish Oil, BioTears
* Notes: Any time oils are increased in the diet, for example by eating nuts or using lots of cooking oils, be sure to increase intake of vitamins A, B3, B6, C, E and minerals zinc, selenium, and manganese for proper absorption.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids – are important to protect cells from degenerative changes and to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
* Food Sources: Human mother’s milk, evening primrose, borage and black currant oils.
* Recommended Dose: 1500 mg daily
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration
* Recommended Products: Carlson's Fish Oil, BioTears
Minerals
Chromium – helps regulate blood sugar, circulation and fat metabolism, and helps prevent nearsightedness, a risk factor for vitreous degeneration and floaters.
* Food Sources: Brewer’s yeast, eggs, potato skins.
* Other Sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 200 mcg daily.
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration , Diabetic Retinopathy
* Recommended Product: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula
* Note: Chromium reduces the blood sugar levels of diabetics, and may require the patient to adjust the insulin dose accordingly.
Magnesium – is a mineral that relaxes smooth muscles and helps prevent muscle spasms. Smooth muscles are what regulate the outflow of aqueous humor from the inner eye.
* Food Sources: Almonds, wheat germ, green leafy vegetables.
* Recommended Dose: 500 mg daily.
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Blepharospasm (twitching of the eyelids), Keratoconus
* Other Conditions: Also good for migraines
* Recommended Products: Optic Nerve Formula , Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, BioTears
* Note: If you are taking antibiotics, do not take magnesium because it interferes with the antibiotics effectiveness.
Selenium – makes sure that glutathione is doing its job. It does this so well that patients with macular degeneration have reported improved vision after taking selenium and vitamin E.
* Food Sources: Garlic, onions, broccoli, cabbage, brown rice, eggs, shrimp, sunflower seeds, tuna, chicken, brazil nuts, wheat.
* Other Sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 200 mcg daily.
* Eye Conditions: Cataracts, Macular Degeneration , Diabetic Retinopathy
* Recommended Products: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, Optic Nerve Formula
Zinc – has been shown to stabilize and even improve vision in people with macular degeneration.
* Food Sources: Barley, wheat, chicken, crab, oysters, lamb, beef, turkey.
* Other Sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 30 mg daily.
* Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma, Cataracts, , Poor Night Vision, Floaters
* Recommended Product: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula
* Note: Zinc deficiencies can result from the following:
1. excessive sweating,
2. high fiber diets can bind zinc and prevent its absorption,
3. phosphates in soda interfere with zinc,
4. coffee drinking can produce zinc deficiency.
* Zinc supplement should not be taken with copper, iron, calcium or fiber (which bind the zinc and make it unusable). Copper is inhibited by zinc, so if zinc supplements are used, 2 mg of copper should be taken daily.
Other Nutrients
Alpha Lipoic Acid plays a crucial role in the mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, and it helps deactivate an unusually wide array of cell-damaging free radicals. This is an essential nutrient for the eyes. A recent research study suggested that the alpha-R form is the most bioavailable.
* Food Sources: Good food sources of alpha lipoic acid include spinach, broccoli, beef, yeast (particularly Brewer's yeast), and certain organ meats (such as the kidney and heart).
* Other Sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 300 mg per day or 150 mg per day of Alpha-R Lipoic Acid, or more as prescribed by your health care professional.
* Recommended Product: Alpha Lipoic Acid
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration , Diabetic Retinopathy , Cataracts
Garlic – helps prevent blood clots from forming in the small blood vessels of the retina.
* Food Sources: Fresh garlic cloves
* Other Sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 1000 mg of garlic powder, 20 mg of garlic oil, 3 cloves per day.
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration , Diabetic Retinopathy , Cataracts
* Recommended Product: Garlic Tablets
* Note: Garlic contains cysteine, methione, and glutathione. It reduces cholesterol, thins the blood without the side effects of aspirin, reduces blood pressure, and is used as a natural antibiotic.
Coenzyme Q10 (also called CoQ10) helps cells breakdown food into energy, and improves heart function and overall blood circulation.
* Food Sources: The best sources of CoQ10 are animal muscle tissues, but many people prefer not to eat this type of food. It is also found in vegetables, particularly spinach and broccoli, but it is easily destroyed in the cooking process.
* Other Sources: Supplements
* Recommended Dose: 30 mg per day, or more as prescribed by your health care professional.
* Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration , Diabetic Retinopathy , Cataracts
* Recommended Product: Coenzyme Q10
Vitamins
Vitamin A – we usually recommend taking vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A with a small amount of fat in the diet.
o Food Sources: Yellow and orange vegetables, including yams, carrots and sweet potatoes, asparagus, spinach, butternut squash, kale, bok choy, mangoes, cataloupe, apricots.
o Other Sources: Supplements
o Recommended Dose: Approximately 15,000 to 25,000 I.U. of beta-carotene daily.
o Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma, Cataracts, Dry Eyes
o Recommended Products: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, BioTears, Vitamin A
o Note: If you have a low thyroid problem, diabetes or problems with fat absorption, beta-carotene may have difficulty converting to vitamin A.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) – aids in the reception of light by the retina, and is necessary for glutathione production.
+ Food Sources: Brewer’s yeast, beans, wheat germ, whole grains, almonds.
+ Other Sources: Supplements
+ Recommended Dose: 10 mg daily.
+ Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma, Cataracts, Dry Eyes
+ Recommended Product(s): Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin
+ Note: If deficient in vitamin B2, it may help with the following conditions: 1) soreness around the eyes, 2) eyes tiring easily, 3) sensitivity to light, 4) dry eyes, 5) cataracts, 6) conjuntivitus, 7) macular degeneration, 8) styes.
Folic Acid - also called folacin and folate, is a water soluble B-vitamin that helps build healthy cells. "Water soluble" means it does not stay in your body for very long, so you need to take it every day to help prevent neural tube defects. During periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy and fetal development, the body's requirement for this vitamin increases.
+ Food Sources: Green leafy vegetables, and broccoli.
+ Other Sources: Supplements
+ Recommended Dose: 400 mcg daily.
+ Eye Conditions: Cataracts
+ Recommended Product(s): Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, Folic Acid
+ Notes: Should be taken with vitamin B12 and Zinc.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) – found to be deficient in almost all persons with macular degeneration. B6 aids in the proper absorption of magnesium, and has a diuretic effect which helps decrease eye pressure.
+ Food Sources: Avocados, bananas, brewer’s yeast, carrots, brown rice, wheat germ, sunflower seeds.
+ Other Sources: Supplements
+ Recommended Dose: 50 mg daily.
+ Eye Conditions: Dry Eyes
+ Recommended Products: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, BioTears
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) seems to improve or prevent the worsening of eyesight in glaucoma patients, apparently by preventing the degeneration of the fatty layer surrounding the nerve cells called the myelin sheath.
+ Food Sources: Eggs, sardines, clams, mackerel.
+ Other Sources: Supplements
+ Recommended Dose: up to 1,000 mcg per day (therapeutic dosage). RDA is 5 mcg per day.
+ Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Optic Nerve Problems
+ Recommended Product: Vital Eyes Complete
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is the queen of antioxidants, helping neutralize free radicals, plus serves as a natural ultraviolet filter inside the eye. The eye has the second highest concentration of Vitamin C in the body next to the adrenal glands.
+ Food Sources: Broccoli, green cabbage, bell peppers, red peppers, kale, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, tangerines, kiwi fruit, oranges, lemons, papayas.
+ Other Sources: Supplements
+ Recommended Dose: 500-3000 mg daily.
+ Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, Cataracts, Dry Eyes
+ Recommended Products: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, BioTears
+ Note: Large doses of vitamin C may cause diarrhea. If so, reduce the dosage.
Vitamin E is another antioxidant that helps reduce eye pressure. Choose the natural “d” form, not the synthetic “dl” form.
+ Food Sources: Wheat germ, brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, almonds, broccoli, mangoes, avocados.
+ Other Sources: Supplements
+ Recommended Dose: 400-500 I.U.’s daily.
+ Eye Conditions: Macular Degeneration , Glaucoma, Cataracts
+ Recommended Products: Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula, Pure Focus
+ Notes: If you are taking blood thinning drugs, consult with your physician due to the fact that vitamin E thins the blood. Note that vitamin E also has been shown to reduce the need for insulin among diabetics.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Greater Omega-3 fatty acid intake associated with protection against advanced age-related macular degeneration
by Wilmer Eye Institute
Researchers from Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins University report in the December, 2010 issue of the journal Ophthalmology the finding of a protective effect for fish that contain abundant amounts of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA against the development of advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The disease is the leading cause of blindness among older Americans of European descent and the number of individuals with advanced AMD is expected to rise by 50% by the next decade.
For their analysis, Sheila K. West, PhD and her associates evaluated data from 2,391 participants in the Salisbury Eye Evaluation (SEE) Study, which included men and women between the ages of 65 and 84 residing in Maryland. Dietary questionnaire responses were analyzed for the type and amount of fish and shellfish consumed weekly. Fundus photographs taken upon enrollment were evaluated for the presence and grade of macular degeneration.
Two hundred twenty-seven subjects were found to have early macular degeneration. One hundred fifty-three had intermediate-stage disease, and advanced macular degeneration, classified as the presence of abnormal blood vessel growth and bleeding or geographic atrophy, was observed in 68 participants. Although there did not appear to be a significant protective effect for fish and shellfish in general, those whose intake of high omega-3 fatty acid fish was greatest at one or more servings per week had a 60 percent lower risk of advanced disease compared to those who consumed less than one serving.
The finding adds evidence to that of other research, including the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), concerning the benefit of nutritional components against macular degeneration. High amounts of omega-3s have been measured in the retina of the eye, and may be essential to eye health. Although AREDS found a protective effect for zinc against age-related macular degeneration, the current study failed to associate greater intake of seafood containing a high amount of the mineral with a lower risk of AMD; however, the authors note that dietary levels of zinc, which average 13 milligrams per week in diets that include crab and oysters, are significantly lower than the 80 milligrams per day of supplemental zinc that was administered in the trial.
"Our study corroborates earlier findings that eating omega-3-rich fish and shellfish may protect against advanced AMD," Dr West stated. "While participants in all groups, including controls, averaged at least one serving of fish or shellfish per week, those who had advanced AMD were significantly less likely to consume high omega-3 fish and seafood."
"Future studies, as suggested by a recent systematic review, are needed to further elucidate the association between the consumption of fish, shellfish, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids and the risk of AMD," the authors recommend.
Researchers from Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins University report in the December, 2010 issue of the journal Ophthalmology the finding of a protective effect for fish that contain abundant amounts of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA against the development of advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The disease is the leading cause of blindness among older Americans of European descent and the number of individuals with advanced AMD is expected to rise by 50% by the next decade.
For their analysis, Sheila K. West, PhD and her associates evaluated data from 2,391 participants in the Salisbury Eye Evaluation (SEE) Study, which included men and women between the ages of 65 and 84 residing in Maryland. Dietary questionnaire responses were analyzed for the type and amount of fish and shellfish consumed weekly. Fundus photographs taken upon enrollment were evaluated for the presence and grade of macular degeneration.
Two hundred twenty-seven subjects were found to have early macular degeneration. One hundred fifty-three had intermediate-stage disease, and advanced macular degeneration, classified as the presence of abnormal blood vessel growth and bleeding or geographic atrophy, was observed in 68 participants. Although there did not appear to be a significant protective effect for fish and shellfish in general, those whose intake of high omega-3 fatty acid fish was greatest at one or more servings per week had a 60 percent lower risk of advanced disease compared to those who consumed less than one serving.
The finding adds evidence to that of other research, including the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), concerning the benefit of nutritional components against macular degeneration. High amounts of omega-3s have been measured in the retina of the eye, and may be essential to eye health. Although AREDS found a protective effect for zinc against age-related macular degeneration, the current study failed to associate greater intake of seafood containing a high amount of the mineral with a lower risk of AMD; however, the authors note that dietary levels of zinc, which average 13 milligrams per week in diets that include crab and oysters, are significantly lower than the 80 milligrams per day of supplemental zinc that was administered in the trial.
"Our study corroborates earlier findings that eating omega-3-rich fish and shellfish may protect against advanced AMD," Dr West stated. "While participants in all groups, including controls, averaged at least one serving of fish or shellfish per week, those who had advanced AMD were significantly less likely to consume high omega-3 fish and seafood."
"Future studies, as suggested by a recent systematic review, are needed to further elucidate the association between the consumption of fish, shellfish, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids and the risk of AMD," the authors recommend.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Ophthalmologists focus on preserving,restoring and enhancing vision in aging patients
by Richard L. Lindstrom, MD
Aging is one risk factor for disease and degeneration that no one can avoid. As all of us over the age of 60 know, the only good thing about aging is that it is superior to the alternative. It is telling that in the U.S., those over the age of 65 years consume 10 times the eye care as those under the age of 65 years.
The challenge for all seniors is to age gracefully, remaining as healthy, wealthy and wise as possible, allowing a high-quality, joyous life. It is part of our duty as physicians to assist our patients in meeting the challenges of aging as best possible. This challenge includes helping them preserve their vision, restoring visual function when treatable diseases are present and, in many cases, enhancing their visual function by, for example, reducing their dependence on glasses when desired.
Preservation of vision includes diagnosing age-related eye disease in a timely fashion and treating patients appropriately. The most common age-related diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, cataract, glaucoma and ocular surface disease are all best managed when diagnosed early and treated as indicated. We are all well-trained and experienced in the this type of restorative medical care.
On the other hand, counseling patients in preventive medical care through proper diet and lifestyle habits was not taught in my medical training, which began some 40 years ago. When I began my medical training in 1969, the significant impact that nutrition and behavioral choices can have on health and quality of life were both less well-understood and, to be direct, neglected in our formal educational process. Today we know that lifestyle choices can have a significant impact on our patients’, and our own, health and quality of life. Clear risk factors include smoking, a poor diet high in saturated fats, inadequate fruit and vegetable ingestion, lack of exercise and improper eye protection when performing dangerous activities, such as pounding a nail. It is important for us all to be aware of these factors and share this knowledge with our patients.
I am an advocate of nutritional supplements and encourage for many patients antioxidant and multiple vitamin supplements as well as omega-3 fatty acids. I take these myself as well as a daily dose of aspirin. Avoidance of smoking is critical. If one enjoys the occasional alcoholic drink, red wine seems the best choice with its high content of the antioxidant resveratrol — ideally never more than two glasses in a given day. Fish is to be encouraged frequently in place of meat. My internist’s recommendation is fruit for breakfast, salad for lunch, and fish or white meat for dinner with lots of green vegetables. In addition, exercise is critical. For most in their senior years, walking is the best therapy, along with light weight training. In addition, the impact of companionship on health and quality of life is well-established. Isolation often leads to depression, and it is important for all physicians to look for and offer referral to the untreated depressed patient.
In regards to vision restoration, the most common cause of visual disability in advanced countries, AMD, can in many cases be mitigated by referral to a specialist in low-vision aids. I ask every new patient I see with significant visual disability whether they have seen a low-vision specialist, and sadly, I would estimate that only about 10% have been previously evaluated. In addition, well more than 50% of senior patients with a visual disability also suffer from an untreated hearing disability. We now screen for this in our practice as well and offer treatment. This is an area where we as a profession can do better.
Of course, most rewarding is the restoration of vision, and the miracle of modern cataract surgery remains one of the most satisfying operations in all of medicine to perform. For many patients, we can not only restore good vision, but in many cases enhance visual performance and quality of life through the utilization of refractive cataract surgery customized to the individual patient’s lifestyle goals.
While the rewards of visual restoration remain at the core of our practice as ophthalmologists, it is important that we do not neglect our duty to preserve vision as well. I also believe it is now appropriate for every cataract surgeon to learn and practice the skills required for refractive cataract surgery, which provides the most common opportunity today for visual function enhancement in the senior patient. As always, the demand for lifelong learning and surgical skill advancement remains a challenge, but the positive impact on our senior patients’ quality of life is well worth the effort.
Bookmark and Share
Aging is one risk factor for disease and degeneration that no one can avoid. As all of us over the age of 60 know, the only good thing about aging is that it is superior to the alternative. It is telling that in the U.S., those over the age of 65 years consume 10 times the eye care as those under the age of 65 years.
The challenge for all seniors is to age gracefully, remaining as healthy, wealthy and wise as possible, allowing a high-quality, joyous life. It is part of our duty as physicians to assist our patients in meeting the challenges of aging as best possible. This challenge includes helping them preserve their vision, restoring visual function when treatable diseases are present and, in many cases, enhancing their visual function by, for example, reducing their dependence on glasses when desired.
Preservation of vision includes diagnosing age-related eye disease in a timely fashion and treating patients appropriately. The most common age-related diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, cataract, glaucoma and ocular surface disease are all best managed when diagnosed early and treated as indicated. We are all well-trained and experienced in the this type of restorative medical care.
On the other hand, counseling patients in preventive medical care through proper diet and lifestyle habits was not taught in my medical training, which began some 40 years ago. When I began my medical training in 1969, the significant impact that nutrition and behavioral choices can have on health and quality of life were both less well-understood and, to be direct, neglected in our formal educational process. Today we know that lifestyle choices can have a significant impact on our patients’, and our own, health and quality of life. Clear risk factors include smoking, a poor diet high in saturated fats, inadequate fruit and vegetable ingestion, lack of exercise and improper eye protection when performing dangerous activities, such as pounding a nail. It is important for us all to be aware of these factors and share this knowledge with our patients.
I am an advocate of nutritional supplements and encourage for many patients antioxidant and multiple vitamin supplements as well as omega-3 fatty acids. I take these myself as well as a daily dose of aspirin. Avoidance of smoking is critical. If one enjoys the occasional alcoholic drink, red wine seems the best choice with its high content of the antioxidant resveratrol — ideally never more than two glasses in a given day. Fish is to be encouraged frequently in place of meat. My internist’s recommendation is fruit for breakfast, salad for lunch, and fish or white meat for dinner with lots of green vegetables. In addition, exercise is critical. For most in their senior years, walking is the best therapy, along with light weight training. In addition, the impact of companionship on health and quality of life is well-established. Isolation often leads to depression, and it is important for all physicians to look for and offer referral to the untreated depressed patient.
In regards to vision restoration, the most common cause of visual disability in advanced countries, AMD, can in many cases be mitigated by referral to a specialist in low-vision aids. I ask every new patient I see with significant visual disability whether they have seen a low-vision specialist, and sadly, I would estimate that only about 10% have been previously evaluated. In addition, well more than 50% of senior patients with a visual disability also suffer from an untreated hearing disability. We now screen for this in our practice as well and offer treatment. This is an area where we as a profession can do better.
Of course, most rewarding is the restoration of vision, and the miracle of modern cataract surgery remains one of the most satisfying operations in all of medicine to perform. For many patients, we can not only restore good vision, but in many cases enhance visual performance and quality of life through the utilization of refractive cataract surgery customized to the individual patient’s lifestyle goals.
While the rewards of visual restoration remain at the core of our practice as ophthalmologists, it is important that we do not neglect our duty to preserve vision as well. I also believe it is now appropriate for every cataract surgeon to learn and practice the skills required for refractive cataract surgery, which provides the most common opportunity today for visual function enhancement in the senior patient. As always, the demand for lifelong learning and surgical skill advancement remains a challenge, but the positive impact on our senior patients’ quality of life is well worth the effort.
Bookmark and Share
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Tomato Juice can Ward Off Osteoporosis- study
by neha gupta -
Two glasses of tomato juice a day keeps osteoporosis risk at bay, according to a recent research conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto in Canada.
2diggsdigg
Two glasses of tomato juice a day keeps osteoporosis risk at bay, according to a recent research conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto in Canada.
Consuming tomato juice on a regular basis can prevent osteoporosis, a bone ailment leading to an increased risk of fractures, by strengthening bones.
Lycopene, an antioxidant contained in the fruit is believed to be the key ingredient behind the process.
Lycopene has been earlier known to reduce the risk of prostate cancer [abnormal cells that divide without control, which can invade nearby tissues or spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to other parts of the body. ] and heart diseases in men.
The study details
The study, aimed to find the role of tomato juice in preventing osteoporosis, looked at 60 post-menopausal women aged between 50 to 60 years.
The participants were asked not to take any tomato product for 30 days.
Cutting out all tomato products from their diet led to a steep increase in their level of N-telopeptide, a chemical produced on breaking of bones.
They were further instructed to consume a daily dose of tomato juice for a period of 4 months.
The dosage included either 15mg of lycopene, 35mg of lycopene, lycopene capsules or dummy capsules.
Women taking any one of the lycopene products along with the juice reported a significant decrease in their N-telopeptide levels.
However, no such benefit was witnessed in the ones taking the dummy capsules.
According to the researchers, standard market juice was found to be as beneficial as the lycopene-enriched one.
"Tomatoes not only contain high levels of carotenoid antioxidants [compounds that protect against cell damage inflicted by molecules called oxygen-free radicals, which are a major cause of disease and aging.] such as lycopene, but also serve as a significant source of vitamin C, fiber and potassium in the American diet," said Kristin Reimers, Ph.D., nutrition manager, ConAgra Foods.
A little about Lycopene
Lycopene is a red colored carotene and carotenoid pigment commonly found in red fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, watermelons and papayas, pink grapefruit, pink guava, red bell pepper, seabuckthorn and wolfberry.
Tomato products like tomato-based sauces, juices, and ketchup account for almost 85 percent of the total lycopene consumption for most of us.
As the nutritional content of lycopene is not reduced on cooking of tomatoes, tomato products like a tomato paste are much more lycopene concentrated than raw tomatoes.
Lycopene is known to neutralize the growth of harmful radicals leading to several cancers like pancreatic cancer, colon [The part of the large intestine that runs from the cecum to the rectum as a long hollow tube that serves to remove water from digested food and let the remaining material, solid waste called stool, move through it to the rectum and leave the body through the anus. ] and rectum [lower end of the large intestine, leading to the anus.] , esophagus, oral cavity, breast, and cervix cancer besides heart diseases, macular degeneration and other age-related illnesses.
Two glasses of tomato juice a day keeps osteoporosis risk at bay, according to a recent research conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto in Canada.
2diggsdigg
Two glasses of tomato juice a day keeps osteoporosis risk at bay, according to a recent research conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto in Canada.
Consuming tomato juice on a regular basis can prevent osteoporosis, a bone ailment leading to an increased risk of fractures, by strengthening bones.
Lycopene, an antioxidant contained in the fruit is believed to be the key ingredient behind the process.
Lycopene has been earlier known to reduce the risk of prostate cancer [abnormal cells that divide without control, which can invade nearby tissues or spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to other parts of the body. ] and heart diseases in men.
The study details
The study, aimed to find the role of tomato juice in preventing osteoporosis, looked at 60 post-menopausal women aged between 50 to 60 years.
The participants were asked not to take any tomato product for 30 days.
Cutting out all tomato products from their diet led to a steep increase in their level of N-telopeptide, a chemical produced on breaking of bones.
They were further instructed to consume a daily dose of tomato juice for a period of 4 months.
The dosage included either 15mg of lycopene, 35mg of lycopene, lycopene capsules or dummy capsules.
Women taking any one of the lycopene products along with the juice reported a significant decrease in their N-telopeptide levels.
However, no such benefit was witnessed in the ones taking the dummy capsules.
According to the researchers, standard market juice was found to be as beneficial as the lycopene-enriched one.
"Tomatoes not only contain high levels of carotenoid antioxidants [compounds that protect against cell damage inflicted by molecules called oxygen-free radicals, which are a major cause of disease and aging.] such as lycopene, but also serve as a significant source of vitamin C, fiber and potassium in the American diet," said Kristin Reimers, Ph.D., nutrition manager, ConAgra Foods.
A little about Lycopene
Lycopene is a red colored carotene and carotenoid pigment commonly found in red fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, watermelons and papayas, pink grapefruit, pink guava, red bell pepper, seabuckthorn and wolfberry.
Tomato products like tomato-based sauces, juices, and ketchup account for almost 85 percent of the total lycopene consumption for most of us.
As the nutritional content of lycopene is not reduced on cooking of tomatoes, tomato products like a tomato paste are much more lycopene concentrated than raw tomatoes.
Lycopene is known to neutralize the growth of harmful radicals leading to several cancers like pancreatic cancer, colon [The part of the large intestine that runs from the cecum to the rectum as a long hollow tube that serves to remove water from digested food and let the remaining material, solid waste called stool, move through it to the rectum and leave the body through the anus. ] and rectum [lower end of the large intestine, leading to the anus.] , esophagus, oral cavity, breast, and cervix cancer besides heart diseases, macular degeneration and other age-related illnesses.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Nutrition and the Eye
Article submitted By Dr. Klair
Aging is a mystery, and everyone does it in their own way. Some people retain clear vision into old age, but most people, even those who are otherwise healthy, develop cataract, and some suffer macular degeneration. Nutrition plays an important role in the long term health of the eye.
The eye is subject to a lifetime barrage of light energy, which includes the white light of vision as well as the higher energy (and more damaging) ultra-violet radiation. The natural lens inside the eye absorbs much of this UV radiation and is subject to cumulative oxidative damage. Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is present in high concentration in the aqueous humor of the eye and is believed essential in the repair of this damage. Vitamin C is widely available in citrus fruits and beverages, as well as tomatoes and most acidic fruits. Vitamin C is not stored in the human body and so must be consumed every day. If a person doesn't eat vitamin C rich foods, then they should supplement with 500 milligrams daily. In addition to the health of the eye, vitamin C is critical to the immune system, gums, and skin.
The macula, or central vision area of the retina, has complex pigments that constantly recycle and restore the retina after exposure to light. It has long been known that beta-carotene is essential to this process. Most people know that eating carrots, a rich source of beta-carotene, is good for vision. Vitamin A is supplemented in milk, and is also present in some animal products, especially liver. Humans store vitamin A in their liver and overdosing is possible, therefore the preferred supplement is beta carotene.
Recently it has been discovered that other carotinoid pigments, called lutein and zeaxanthine, are essential to the health of the macula. These are found in carrots but are more abundant in the dark green leafy vegetables, like collard greens, spinach, and kale. Yellow fruits like squash and pumpkin are also a good source. These pigments are concentrated in the macula and play a critical role in the function and restoration of the retina.
Unfortunately, as some people age the macula deteriorates. Age-related macula degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of new blindness in Americans over the age of 65. The risk is strongly age dependent and by age 75 there is a 5% incidence of the disease. There are two forms, "wet" and "dry," with the wet type being far more devastating to vision. Both types usually begin with the appearance of "drusen" in the macula. These usually appear in the 5th-6th decade of life and are detected by ophthalmologic examination. The American Medical Assoc. recommends screening exams every 2-4 years for ages 40-64, and then annually after age 65.
After years of anecdotal and epidemiologic evidence in favor of dietary pigments for AMD, the Age-Related Eye Disease Study, released in November of 2001, definitively supports the role for dietary supplements in macular degeneration. The study found that patients with macular degeneration who took 80 mg of zinc, 500 mg of vitamin C, 15 mg of beta carotene, and 400 IU of vitamin E daily did better than those who took placebo or other combinations over a three year follow-up.
Eat a broad variety of foods over the course of a lifetime to maintain healthy eyes. Consult an ophthalmologist for use of dietary supplements.
Aging is a mystery, and everyone does it in their own way. Some people retain clear vision into old age, but most people, even those who are otherwise healthy, develop cataract, and some suffer macular degeneration. Nutrition plays an important role in the long term health of the eye.
The eye is subject to a lifetime barrage of light energy, which includes the white light of vision as well as the higher energy (and more damaging) ultra-violet radiation. The natural lens inside the eye absorbs much of this UV radiation and is subject to cumulative oxidative damage. Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is present in high concentration in the aqueous humor of the eye and is believed essential in the repair of this damage. Vitamin C is widely available in citrus fruits and beverages, as well as tomatoes and most acidic fruits. Vitamin C is not stored in the human body and so must be consumed every day. If a person doesn't eat vitamin C rich foods, then they should supplement with 500 milligrams daily. In addition to the health of the eye, vitamin C is critical to the immune system, gums, and skin.
The macula, or central vision area of the retina, has complex pigments that constantly recycle and restore the retina after exposure to light. It has long been known that beta-carotene is essential to this process. Most people know that eating carrots, a rich source of beta-carotene, is good for vision. Vitamin A is supplemented in milk, and is also present in some animal products, especially liver. Humans store vitamin A in their liver and overdosing is possible, therefore the preferred supplement is beta carotene.
Recently it has been discovered that other carotinoid pigments, called lutein and zeaxanthine, are essential to the health of the macula. These are found in carrots but are more abundant in the dark green leafy vegetables, like collard greens, spinach, and kale. Yellow fruits like squash and pumpkin are also a good source. These pigments are concentrated in the macula and play a critical role in the function and restoration of the retina.
Unfortunately, as some people age the macula deteriorates. Age-related macula degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of new blindness in Americans over the age of 65. The risk is strongly age dependent and by age 75 there is a 5% incidence of the disease. There are two forms, "wet" and "dry," with the wet type being far more devastating to vision. Both types usually begin with the appearance of "drusen" in the macula. These usually appear in the 5th-6th decade of life and are detected by ophthalmologic examination. The American Medical Assoc. recommends screening exams every 2-4 years for ages 40-64, and then annually after age 65.
After years of anecdotal and epidemiologic evidence in favor of dietary pigments for AMD, the Age-Related Eye Disease Study, released in November of 2001, definitively supports the role for dietary supplements in macular degeneration. The study found that patients with macular degeneration who took 80 mg of zinc, 500 mg of vitamin C, 15 mg of beta carotene, and 400 IU of vitamin E daily did better than those who took placebo or other combinations over a three year follow-up.
Eat a broad variety of foods over the course of a lifetime to maintain healthy eyes. Consult an ophthalmologist for use of dietary supplements.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Good Nutrition For the Eyes goes beyond CARROTS
Diana Shechtman, OD, FAAO
Jeffry Gerson, OD, FAAO
Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of vision loss among the elderly. Although we do not have a cure, studies like AREDS (Age Related Eye Disease Study), have shown that nutritional supplementations can reduce the progression of the disease. Yet, as the word indicates, supplementation should be used to enhance an individual’s diet not to substitute it. The best source of nutrients comes from dietary intake and supplementation should be secondary to food modifications.
There are an array of nutrients that have been shown to protect the eye from various degenerative diseases like AMD. Examples include but are not limited to fish, leafy green vegetables, nuts, blueberries and low glycemic foods. It is important to note that changes in a diet should be discussed with your physician to prevent any adverse effects. For example, high levels of vitamin K (found in leafy greens) may intensify the effects of blood thinning medications.
Eat fish
Fish, particularly cold-water fish like sardines, tuna and salmon are a wonderful source of omega 3. Eating two or more serving per week may reduce the risk of progression of AMD.
Make your diet colorful
A variety of yellow, orange, green and red fruits and vegetables can provide a good source of carotenoids. Carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin comprise the macular pigment (a filter in the back of the eye), protecting the eye against damage from UV. Good sources of lutein and zeaxanthin include leafy greens (spinach, kale and collard greens), blueberries, pumpkin, melon, red bell peppers, corn and even eggs.
Milk is not just for bones
Dairy products, like yogurt, are a good source of vitamin D. Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory benefits that are beneficial against a number of diseases in addition to AMD. Sensible UV exposure is required to synthesize vitamin D.
Go exotic
Antioxidants may be found in a number of exotic foods. Such antioxidants may include green tea & goji berries, which have a Chinese origin. Indian food, known for its curry spice, have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The French are known for their love of wine, which contains resveratrol, having some anti-oxidant properties, as well as cardio-protective benefits.
Supplementation
Although it is preferable to get vitamins and minerals from food, it may be difficult to obtain the high doses needed from diet alone. These particular supplements are not one-size fits all. Although some patients may require nutritional supplementation, not everybody needs an AREDS style supplement and not all individuals should take it. Furthermore, mega-doses of vitamins may be contraindicated and/or harmful in particular cases. More is not always better and mega-doses may be associated with adverse affects. The proper recommendation may depend on age, gender, systemic health, social behavior, as well as current supplements and medications one is taking. Any ocular vitamin supplementation should be discussed with your eye care provider.
In addition to a good diet and possible nutritional supplementation, lifestyle changes are beneficial in decreasing the prevalence and progression of AMD. These include smoking cessation, controlling blood pressure, exercising, maintaining a proper body mass index (BMI), avoiding processed foods, and limiting foods that have a high glycemic index (such as processed foods).
In absence of health related issues or contraindications, addition of various vitamins, minerals, and herbs through a well-balanced diet may play a key role in helping in the fight against AMD. As always, getting a regular eye exam is still a must.
Jeffry Gerson, OD, FAAO
Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of vision loss among the elderly. Although we do not have a cure, studies like AREDS (Age Related Eye Disease Study), have shown that nutritional supplementations can reduce the progression of the disease. Yet, as the word indicates, supplementation should be used to enhance an individual’s diet not to substitute it. The best source of nutrients comes from dietary intake and supplementation should be secondary to food modifications.
There are an array of nutrients that have been shown to protect the eye from various degenerative diseases like AMD. Examples include but are not limited to fish, leafy green vegetables, nuts, blueberries and low glycemic foods. It is important to note that changes in a diet should be discussed with your physician to prevent any adverse effects. For example, high levels of vitamin K (found in leafy greens) may intensify the effects of blood thinning medications.
Eat fish
Fish, particularly cold-water fish like sardines, tuna and salmon are a wonderful source of omega 3. Eating two or more serving per week may reduce the risk of progression of AMD.
Make your diet colorful
A variety of yellow, orange, green and red fruits and vegetables can provide a good source of carotenoids. Carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin comprise the macular pigment (a filter in the back of the eye), protecting the eye against damage from UV. Good sources of lutein and zeaxanthin include leafy greens (spinach, kale and collard greens), blueberries, pumpkin, melon, red bell peppers, corn and even eggs.
Milk is not just for bones
Dairy products, like yogurt, are a good source of vitamin D. Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory benefits that are beneficial against a number of diseases in addition to AMD. Sensible UV exposure is required to synthesize vitamin D.
Go exotic
Antioxidants may be found in a number of exotic foods. Such antioxidants may include green tea & goji berries, which have a Chinese origin. Indian food, known for its curry spice, have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The French are known for their love of wine, which contains resveratrol, having some anti-oxidant properties, as well as cardio-protective benefits.
Supplementation
Although it is preferable to get vitamins and minerals from food, it may be difficult to obtain the high doses needed from diet alone. These particular supplements are not one-size fits all. Although some patients may require nutritional supplementation, not everybody needs an AREDS style supplement and not all individuals should take it. Furthermore, mega-doses of vitamins may be contraindicated and/or harmful in particular cases. More is not always better and mega-doses may be associated with adverse affects. The proper recommendation may depend on age, gender, systemic health, social behavior, as well as current supplements and medications one is taking. Any ocular vitamin supplementation should be discussed with your eye care provider.
In addition to a good diet and possible nutritional supplementation, lifestyle changes are beneficial in decreasing the prevalence and progression of AMD. These include smoking cessation, controlling blood pressure, exercising, maintaining a proper body mass index (BMI), avoiding processed foods, and limiting foods that have a high glycemic index (such as processed foods).
In absence of health related issues or contraindications, addition of various vitamins, minerals, and herbs through a well-balanced diet may play a key role in helping in the fight against AMD. As always, getting a regular eye exam is still a must.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
