DE LOS REYES OPTICAL EYE DISEASE AND DIET

Natural light is made up from spectrum of different colors, like a rainbow. over a life-time, the blue part of natural light can cause damage to both the lens and the retina of the eye.

In the elderly, this can increase the risk of a cataract developing, or retina degenerating.

Diet can play an important role in preventing this damage.

Colorful fruits and vegetables e.g. oranges, orange peppers, fresh parsley, carrots, spinach, courgettes and corn are types of food that are rich in nutrients called "Carotenoids", that can protect the eye.

Unfortunately, many people do not get enough of the protective vitamins, minerals and cartenoids in their normal diet.

Furthermore, the elderly are less able than the younger people to absorb these nutrients, putting them at a higher risk of develooing eye problems.

For these peple, the addition of vitamin and mineral supplement may be one convenient way to correct this imbalance.

What is Cataract?

'Cataract' is the therm used when the lens of the eye becomes opaque or 'cloudy'. It may affect one or both eyes and is commonly associated with the aging proccess. Since there is no consistently effective drug treatment surgery may be required.

What can happen to the retina with age?

AMD or Age-related Macular Degeneration is one of the terms used when the back of the eye (retina) starts to deteriorate and affect vision. As the name implies, it is associated with the aging proccess. A new drug and laser combination treatment is available which can slow down or halt this degeneration, but the best 'treatment' is to try to reduce the risk of getting it in the first place.

What factors can increase the risk of getting the above conditions?

Extensive exposure to the sun (blue light)

Heart disease and/or high blood pressure

Smoking

Old age

High alcohol consumption

Family history of AMD

Being female

What factors can lower risk?

Influencing the above factors where possible
e.g. stopping smoking

Intake of foods rich in anti-oxidant vitamins and minerals