Cataracts
The eye's lens is normally transparent; it refracts and focuses light on the
retina, which allows a clear image to form, when the
proteins in the lens
break down, they clump together and form opaque spots called cataracts.
These spots hinder light from being transmitted properly to the retina, and
vision becomes cloudy or blurry. The degree of impaired vision depends
on the cataract's size, density, and location on the lens.
Cataracts may develop as a result of age-related body changes; but some
experts now think that the majority of cases can be attributed to
smoking
or to lifetime exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. A low level
of antioxidants (vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and
selenium) may also
be a factor. These compounds can squelch free radicals-unstable oxygen
molecules-that can damage the lens. (Normally, the lens has a high
concentration of glutathione, an antioxidant produced by the body). In
addition, having diabetes or being
overweight increases the risk of cataracts,
probably because high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood contribute to
the destruction of lens proteins. Injury to the eye can cause cataracts too.
Supplements and herbs
Taking supplements before a cataract appears may postpone its
development or prevent it altogether. In the early stages of a cataract,
supplements may slow its growth. Only surgery will remove a cataract, however.
Both vitamin C and
vitamin E, potent antioxidants, may protect the
lens from damage from cigarette smoke and UV light. Selenium,
another antioxidant, also helps neutralize free radicals. The herb
bilberry is
rich in flavonoids, which prevent degeneration of the lens and retina. In
one study, bilberry combined with vitamin E stopped the progression of
cataracts in 48 of 50 participants.
This combination of supplements usually provides adequate cataract
protection; however, the following nutrients may also be helpful: The herb
ginkgo biloba, which improves circulation and has strong antioxidant
properties, can be substituted for bilberry. Ginkgo may be a good choice
for people who are already taking it for memory problems.
Alpha-lipoic
acid shows promise as a cataract preventive and also boosts the
effectiveness of vitamins C and E. Because grape seed extract can have a
therapeutic impact on even the tiniest blood vessels, it benefits circulation
in the eye. Consider adding flaxseed oil to this regimen as well; its
essential fatty acids nourish the eye. Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is also
important: Take 25 mg a day if you do not take a multivitamin or a
B complex supplement that supplies at least this amount.
Homeopathy
Remedies below have
been helpful in many cases of cataracts, and are
mentioned here to introduce a few of the possibilities
homeopathy can offer, not as suggestions for self-care.
A constitutional remedy chosen by an experienced
prescriber is the most appropriate way to help a
person with deep-seated or chronic conditions.
- Calcarea carb.
This remedy may be indicated when a person
developing cataracts has the feeling of looking through a
mist. A person needing this remedy tends to be a
responsible type, but feels overwhelmed when under
stress and fears breakdown or disease. Chilliness,
swollen glands, weight problems, and easy tiring from
exertion are other indications for Calcarea carbonica.
- Calcarea fluor.
This remedy is often indicated when tissues harden or
thicken abnormally. A person needing this remedy
may also have a tendency toward hard swollen lymph
nodes, joint pains, fibrous growths, or bone spurs.
The person generally feels worse during weather
changes and improved by warmth.
- Causticum
This remedy has been helpful in some cases when the
person developing cataracts also has problems
moving the eyes, as if the muscles around the eyeballs were
stiff or weak-especially after getting cold in the wind
or open air. The person may have a feeling of sand in
the eyes. A person who needs this remedy may tend to
have muscular stiffness in many body areas. They are
generally worse from cold and improved by warmth,
and often feel best in damp or rainy weather.
- Natrum mur.
This remedy may be indicated when cataracts begin to
develop. The muscles around the eyes can feel bruised
and weak, especially when the person looks down.
The person may have a feeling of gauze across the
eyes, and parts of the field of vision may be hard to
focus on. A person who needs this remedy usually
craves salt, feels worse from being in the sun, and has
deep emotions yet appears to be reserved.
- Phosphorus
People who need this remedy may have a feeling that
dust or mist in the eyes is obscuring vision, or may
experience soreness that feels like eyestrain after very
little use. They sometimes see little bright dots of
colored light when the eyes are closed. People who need
this remedy are usually sympathetic and fond of
company, but can tire easily. An active imagination
(including many fears) and a strong desire for cold drinks and
refreshing things are other indications for Phosphorus.
- Silicea
This remedy has been helpful to some individuals who
developed cataracts after extended periods of
eyestrain, or after perspiration of the feet had been
suppressed. People needing this remedy tend to be chilly
(although they often sweat at night) and often have
low resistance to infection. Fine hair,
weak nails, easy
tiredness, and swollen lymph nodes are other signs
suggesting Silicea.
What else you can do
- Quit smoking.
- Protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.
- Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables; they're good sources of antioxidants.
How much to take
-
- Vitamin C
- 1,000 mg twice a day.
Reduce dose if diarrhea develops.
- Vitamin E
- 400 IU a day.
Check with your doctor if taking anticoagulant drugs.
- Selenium
- 200 mcg a day.
Don't exceed 400 mcg daily; higher doses may be toxic.
- Bilberry
- 80 mg 3 times a day.
Standardized to contain 25% anthocyanosides. May be
included in nutritional supplement eye formulas.
- Ginkgo biloba
- 40 mg 3 times a day.
Standardized to have at least 24%
flavone glycosides.
- Alpha-lipoic acid
- 150 mg a day.
Take in the morning with or without food.
- Grape seed extract
- 100 mg twice a day.
Standardized to contain 92%-95%
proanthocyanidins.
- Flaxseed oil
- 1 tbsp (14 grams) a day.
Can be mixed with food; take in the morning.
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