Protection Against Sun Exposure
Summertime is here, and it is great to be outdoors enjoying the wonderful weather. Some daily exposure to sunlight helps build up Vitamin D in the body and is good for eye health, but excessive exposure can lead to skin damage, skin cancer, and even promote eye disease which may include macular degeneration, other retinal disorders, and cataracts. Ongoing exposure to blue light increases the risk of neovascular (wet) macular degeneration, particularly associated with low levels of antioxidants, and especially low levels of vitamin C and zeaxanthin.[1. Fletcher, A.E., Bentham, G.C., Agnew, M., Young, I.S., Augood, C., et al. (2008). Sunlight exposure, antioxidants, and age-related macular degeneration. Arch Ophthalmol, Oct;126(10):1396-403.] Another study suggested that extended exposure to sunlight outdoors may be associated with age-related maculopathy.[2. Cruickshanks, K.J., Klein, R., Klein, B.E. (1993). Sunlight and age-related macular degeneration. The Beaver Dam Eye Study. Arch Ophthalmol. 111(4):514-518.] Continue reading “Add Nutritional Sun Protection to Your Summer”
Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions among seniors. A cataract results in clouding the vision, and eventually causes blindness if not treated. The conventional approach to cataracts is to wait and see if it gets worse. When a cataract is advanced, an eye surgeon usually offers cataract surgery. Cataract surgery uses artificial lenses that correct any clouding due to a cataract. It can correct certain refraction errors at the same time. However, not everyone is a good fit for this treatment. Which nutrients help promote healthy lenses and overall eye health? What does recent research into cataract pharmacotherapy show? And, which combinations of nutrients are the most effective for lens support?