Food Remedies for Cataracts

Cataracts occur when proteins clump up in the lens of the eye and become clouded which obstructs vision and interferes with normal activities such as driving, reading, working on the computer or watching television. Cataracts are typically a slow progression over time and increase as a person ages. Some of the most common symptoms of cataracts include blurred vision, double vision, halos around light and sensitivity to light and or glare. Nearly 50 million Americans have cataracts.

Foods Rich in Powerful Antioxidants Vitamins A, C and E

• Research has shown that vitamin C aids in the reduction of the risk of developing cataracts. People with cataracts who eat foods that are fortified with vitamin C such as broccoli, cabbage, peas, and green leafy vegetables such as spinach may help improve the chances for not developing cataracts. Other foods rich in vitamin C include oranges, grapefruit, pineapple, mangoes, grapes, and tomatoes and green and red bell peppers.

  Studies have shown that vitamin A will help with night blindness as well with the reduction of the development of cataracts. Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant and a deficiency in vitamin A can lead to blindness. Some of the foods rich in vitamin A include milk, carrots, apricots, kale, cucumbers, winter and summer squash, prunes, plums, papaya, celery, egg yolks, carrots, sweet potatoes, liver, cantaloupe and spinach.

  Vitamin E has also been proven in studies to be important in the reduction of developing cataracts and macular degeneration. Foods rich in vitamin E include green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, whole grains, bananas, apples, olive oil, egg yolks, sardines, wheat germ, peanut butter, olives, brussel sprouts, kiwi, sunflower seeds, almonds, pine nuts and hazelnuts.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Minerals and Berries

• Omega-3 fatty acids are also great for combating cataracts. Omega-3 fatty acids help protect the eyes from developing eye diseases. Some food rich in omega-3 fatty acids include shrimp, scallops, tuna, spinach, salmon, soybeans, tofu, halibut, walnuts and flax seed.

  Minerals such as zinc, lutein, selenium, and bioflavonoids are very helpful for eye health. Minerals help vitamins work better and they also help to balance overall nutrition in the body. Foods rich in minerals include beef, lobster, lamb, brown rice, yogurt, whole grain cereals and breads, beans, cod, brazil nuts, turkey breast, oatmeal, cottage cheese and chicken breast.

  Berries are also very good for the health of the eyes. Diets should include plenty of fresh berries such as blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, cherries, raspberries and bilberries. Berries have high levels of antioxidants which are very beneficial for maintaining good eye health and a diet that includes berries will help improve overall vision.