Description

There are many different types of vision problems, including:

- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

- Cataracts

- Diabetic retinopathy

- Glaucoma

- Night blindness

- Etc.

Symptoms vary by condition, e.g.:

- AMD - damage to the macula area of the retina, gradual loss of central vision

- Cataracts - clouding of the lens of the eye, fuzzy/blurred vision, gradual vision loss

- Glaucoma - pressure buildup and pain in the eye, gradual loss of peripheral vision leading to tunnel vision

Causes

Potential contributing factors include:

- Oxidative stress (free-radical damage)

- Diabetes

- High blood pressure

- Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)

- Smoking

- Nutrient deficiencies

- Genetic errors in collagen metabolism

- Environmental toxin exposure - e.g., heavy metals

Treatment Approach

- If present, address diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

- Identify and address potential food allergies or intolerances.

- Shift to an anti-inflammatory diet that includes a reduction in saturated animal fats, trans fats, charbroiled foods, fried foods, and sugar, an increase in potassium- and magnesium-rich foods (e.g., fruits & vegetables) and dietary fiber, adequate filtered water, and a balanced intake of essential fatty acids.

- Include supplementation to support eye function, e.g.:

      - Antioxidants

      - Vitamins
      - Carotenoids - e.g., beta-carotene, lutein

      - Minerals - e.g., zinc, selenium

      - Herbals - e.g., bilberry

      - Essential fatty acids

- Avoid future toxin exposure, and reduce existing toxin levels in the body.