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Cataracts Can Be Prevented with Healthy Eating

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Cataracts can be prevented with healthy eating

Eating a healthy diet can do wonders for your health. It can give you more energy, help you lose weight, and make you look and feel younger. But did you know that you can decrease your risk of cataracts by merely following a healthy diet? It’s true! Studies show that those who follow healthy foods high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains rather than refined can decrease their risk for cataracts. This may be in part due to the antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E, lutein, and zeaxanthin found in fruits and vegetables. These beautiful nutrients can help your eyes and prevent you from getting a cataract.

A few studies have been published showing that a healthy diet can help prevent cataracts.

Read: Preventing Cataracts In Children

One study done on a large group of women in June 2010 showed that the women were able to delay the development of cataracts by changing their diet to one high in vitamins and minerals. Another study in Japan used 88 eyes that already had cataracts. This study was published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology in August 2009 and showed that cataracts are linked to oxidative stress that is connected with low levels of antioxidants in the lenses of the eye. Harvard Medical School performed a study showing that higher intakes of zeaxanthin, vitamin E, and lutein taken in either food or supplements had a significant impact on decreasing the risk of cataracts.

While it may be easier to take a supplement for all of these nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, and phytochemicals to prevent cataracts, most experts believe that is is much more beneficial to get these nutrients from a healthy diet rather than a supplement. Most Americans’ diets are lacking these excellent nutrients that work to prevent cataracts, so although it is best to change your diet if you need to take a supplement to get the daily recommended amount of each nutrient, it is suggested.

Read: How to Improve Eye Vision Without Glasses

Cataracts are not fun, especially when you know they can be avoided. Frequently they result in having cataract surgery, so it is best to follow a healthy diet and avoid going through that. The best way to ensure that your food is one that will be beneficial to your eyes and your body is to be sure you are getting all of your vitamins. You can do this by eating at least five to nine servings of vegetables and fruits per day and always eating 100 percent whole grain. You also want to avoid all processed and sugary foods, as they are very unhealthy and will only hold you back.

A healthy diet can be so beneficial to your health and your eyes. If you want to prevent cataracts, add some colorful fruits and vegetables to your diet, and kick out the junk food to ensure a lifetime of healthy, beautiful, cataract free eyes.