Can you Prevent Macular Degeneration?
- Posted on: Apr 30 2016
With age come many physical changes that may pose a threat to your overall quality of life. Learning about the effect that aging has on your eyes can help you prepare for the future, not by alarming you but by giving you the information you need to manage your best health profile.
One of the common eye conditions that tends to occur later in life is Macular Degeneration. Statistics show that this condition affects more people than glaucoma and cataracts combined. Because more than 10 million Americans have this incurable condition, and because macular degeneration can lead to blindness, we do well to educate ourselves on methods of protection.
People at a higher risk for macular degeneration, such as individuals with a family history of this condition, can benefit from lifestyle habits that support optimal eye health. These 10 habits can also benefit the person who has been diagnosed with the disease.
- See your eye doctor on a regular basis. The earlier that macular degeneration is detected, the better it can be monitored and managed.
- Add a few servings of healthy fish to your diet. If you do not like fish, take a fish oil supplement each day.
- Vitamins and nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene, and zinc can be taken to support eye health.
- Do not smoke! This habit increases the risk of macular degeneration.
- Consume fresh fruits and nuts, which provide valuable nutrients to the eyes.
- Consume leafy greens such as spinach or kale, daily if possible.
- Maintain your weight with a healthy exercise regimen.
- Minimize the consumption of refined carbohydrates, which can cause weight gain and oxidative stress.
- Talk with your health care provider about ways to manage cholesterol and blood pressure.
- Protect your eyes from UV damage! Wear sunglasses when you go outdoors, even if there are clouds in the sky.
Roholt Vision Institute has three locations to serve your needs. If you are showing signs of macular degeneration, we can help. Contact us to schedule a convenient consultation with our experienced staff.
Posted in: Macular Degeneration