Cataract Culprits-How Lifestyle Choices Impact Eye Health

Poor lifestyle choices negatively affect the body. It’s no secret that many diseases result from chronic misuse or overuse of medications, diet and environmental factors. Cancer, diabetes and heart disease are leading causes of death and disability in the United States brought on by behaviors such as lack of physical exercise, unhealthy food consumption and smoking. These same factors also impact eye health and vision. While cataracts are commonly associated with age, cataract culprits that can be avoided will eventually catch up with you and show you how lifestyle choices impact eye health and eventually drastically interfere with quality vision. 

The first step in a journey toward healthier vision is to stamp out bad habits that can contribute to the development of cataracts. Cataracts develop gradually over time clouding the lens of the eye making it opaque and making it difficult to see clearly. Leading a healthy lifestyle is one of the surest ways to maintain good vision. Avoid prolonged and extended exposure to ultraviolet light, quit smoking, manage high blood sugar and assess your current diet. Cut down on sodium intake as well as sugary foods. Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, nuts, seeds, whole grains carotenoid rich fruits and vegetables that are also rich in lutein, zeaxanthin and vitamins A, C and E. Research shows that foods with high levels of these vitamins not only slow the growth of cataracts but may prevent them from developing earlier than anticipated. Wear sunglasses when outside that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. UV light, whether from the sun or artificial light, can cause damage to the eyes. Smoking is not only bad for your heart and lungs but increases the number of free radicals in your eyes. Free radicals damage lipids and proteins in the eyes causing deposits to form on the lens, leading to cataract development. People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts than those with blood sugar levels in a normal range. Managing high blood sugar is a proactive method to delaying cataracts. 
Discuss with your eye doctor your lifestyle choices on their impact on your eye health. Take steps toward healthier vision with an appointment at Pennachio Eye. Call 325-227-1999 or visit WEBSITE to select a day and time that works best for you. We look forward to seeing you.