Feast for the Eyes
By B. Singer and Kelly Lacher-Kiviko
Diet and vision go hand-in-hand.
Amajor contributor to eye trouble is a poor diet. According to Dr. Brad
Pitchford's Healing with Whole Foods, a diet that is denatured,
chemical- and preservative-laden can affect vision. Our bodies lose vitamins
and minerals in the breakdown of over-processed foods, and when those resources
are depleted, our bodies run inefficiently and health issues can become
concerns.
For example, we lose B vitamins when our body tries to break down
white sugars. When B vitamins are lost the brain does not function at an
optimal level. The result is stress, which can manifest in tired eye
muscles.
Incorporating foods into your diet that are high in vitamins and
minerals that support the eyes is the first step in preventive eye care. The
following is a list of the vitamins and mineral supplements that are essential
for visual health:
Vitamin A and beta-carotene: A deficiency of these vitamins can cause
dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea, and might lead to blindness. Food
sources include apricots, asparagus, broccoli, carrots, dandelion greens, sweet
potatoes and yellow squash.
B-Complex vitamins: Not only important for the eyes, B-complex vitamins
also maintain health of the skin, hair, liver, and mouth as well as proper
brain functions. Food sources include egg yolk, fish, beef liver, whole grains,
poultry, sunflower seeds and unrefined molasses.
Vitamin D: Important for overall eye care. Sources include sunlight, cod
liver oil, oatmeal and salmon.
Vitamin C: An antioxidant that reduces intra-ocular pressure. Food
sources include berries, citrus fruits, green vegetable, and kale.
Vitamin E: Improves circulation and helps prevent cataracts. Sources:
dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains.
Zinc: Important for general eye care. Sources: egg yolk, fish, pecans,
oysters, pumpkin seeds, and whole grains.
Herbs can be a safe and inexpensive alternative to synthetic drugs. The
following are known for their positive affect on the eyes and vision:
Bilberry: Referred to as "the vision herb." Bilberry gives improved
delivery of oxygen and blood to the eye. It also contains antioxidants for
healthy tissue and strengthens the collagen.
Coleus: This herb in the mint family lowers intra-ocular pressure by
relaxing the smooth (involuntary) muscles in the eye.
Dandelion root: A universal liver tonic that helps with general eye
care.
Eyebright: Used since the Middle Ages to treat and support vision, it is
especially helpful for eye inflammations.
Ginger: An anti-inflammatory for glaucoma patients.
The best method for maintaining healthy eyes is the prevention of
the nutritional deficiencies that cause them. By incorporating an informed diet
into your lifestyle, you can provide your eyes with all the vitamins and
minerals they need to stay trouble-free. .
Kelly Ladner-Kiviko is a student of traditional Chinese medicine and
herbalism in Arizona.
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