Cataracts
What are cataracts?
Cataracts (also known as cloudy lens, eye strain, eye problems, or blurry vision) are a clouding of the eye lens which lies behind the iris. The lens is mostly made of water and protein.
What causes cataracts?
The protein in the lens is arranged in a precise way that keeps the lens clear and lets light pass through it. But, as we age, some of the protein may clump together and start to cloud a small area of the lens. This is a cataract, and over time, it may grow larger and cloud more of the lens, making it harder to see. Additionally, eye tissue is rich in fatty acids and therefore is particularly prone to free radical damage. Light is an oxidant. When it strikes the fatty acids of the macular region, free radical oxidation damage may occur. Lutein, a potent antioxidant, may help maintain the integrity of the macular tissue where it is concentrated, and protect the blood vessels that supply the macular region.
Cataracts are the leading cause of impaired vision and blindness. Many factors are contributed to this such as injury, ultra violet light, diabetes, continual eye muscle strain, and surgery. Seeing sparks or flashes of light when the eyes are closed indicate stress. The eyes need to de-stress just as any other part of the body. To de-stress the eyes, blink regularly to lubricate. Other causes may include:
• deficiency in zinc, vitamin B-6, beta carotene, and bioflavonoids
• diets deficient in antioxidants.
• poor digestion
• diabetes
• diet high in hydrogenated fats
• high sugar diet
• poor liver and kidney function
References
Frable, T.m., M.e. Borja, L. Butcher-Powell, and A. Levine. "Evaluation Of Clinical Nutrition Management Benchmarking Indicators." Journal of the American Dietetic Association 103 (2003): 60-61. Web.
Howson, Mark, and Manfred Porkert. Chinese Medicine. New York: Morrow, 1988. Print.
Rector-Page, Linda G. Healthy Healing: An Alternative Healing Reference. United States: Healthy Healing Publications, 1994. Print.
Teeguarden, Ron, and Caroline Davies. Chinese Tonic Herbs. Tokyo: Japan Publications, 1985.