Healthy Eyes

My childrenlast few and articleshow vision have is been vital aboutfor learning. So I thought it might be appropriate to discuss adult vision and how to maintain healthy eyes into old age. We are all living longer with the associated health problems that come with old age. For the human developingeye that cataracts, typically glaucoma,means macular degeneration and dry eyes. While none of these are totally avoidable we can all do things to minimise risk. Simply using sunglasses on bright days will reduce UV light entering our eyes. UV is associated with the development of cataracts and macular degeneration. Changing our eating habits can also help. There is evidence that vitamin C can help reduce cataract formation. In some countries major drug manufacturers have introduced tablets designed to minimise cataract formation. They are not licensed for use in the EU or the UK. There is work ongoing to develop eye drops to reduce cataract formation. Macular degeneration is associated with a lack of lutein in the eye. Lutein protects our retinas from the harmful effects of blue light. Our bodies cannot manufacture lutein and it can only come from our diet. Foods that are high in lutein include spinach, broccoli, cabbage, kale and eggs. The evidence is overwhelming that appropriate dietary change definitely helps protect our retinas. Dry eyes also benefit from changes in oily our fish diet. e.g. By salmon,herringeating much moreand mackerel and cutting down on red meat we can increase the levels of Omega 3 in our bodies. Lack of Omega 3 is one of the main causes of dry eye. Dietary improvements are not always easy. It is now possible to use food supplements instead. Not all food supplements are equal and you should ask your optometrist for advice. John Wallace BSc (Hons), FCOptom, DipCLP Wallace Optometrists The West Highland Orthokeratology Clinic 11/12 Argyll Square, Oban Tel: 0845 230 3937 (EYES) www.wallaceoptometrists.co.uk