Tag Archives: eye remedies

Macular Degeneration of the Eyes: Science Shows Natural Remedies

Posted on by

macular degenerationWhat is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a common eye condition, especially among people over the age of 50, that can lead to blurry vision, difficulty reading or driving, and recognizing people or the details of things..

The macula is the middle, center part of the retina. The retina is the nerve tissue at the back of the eye that is sensitive to light and that receives and sends images to the brain.

The good news is that there are some natural remedies that can help slow its progression and even support healing.  By making small but impactful changes to your diet, supplements, lifestyle, and daily habits, you can protect your eyes and improve your vision.

Proven Natural Remedies

  1. Antioxidants: Antioxidants are natural substances that can prevent or delay certain types of cell damage that comes from oxygen interactions. These are nutrients like vitamins C, E and A that help fight oxidative stress, which is a key factor in macular degeneration. Studies show that vitamin C (found in citrus fruits and colored bell peppers) and vitamin E (from nuts and seeds) can slow the progression of the disease (Archives of Ophthalmology, 2001). Antioxidants work by protecting retinal cells from damage, helping maintain healthy vision for longer.
  2. Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Found in leafy greens like spinach, kale, other leafy greens, carrots, eggs, broccoli and peas. These are known as carotenoids, pigments in plants which produce the bright yellow, red, and orange colors in vegetables. These pigments are known to accumulate in the macula and protect against harmful light rays. According to research, individuals who consume high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin can reduce their risk of advanced macular degeneration by up to 25% (The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2013).
  3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s, especially from fish oil, salmon and sardines, are essential for eye health. Studies suggest that these healthy fats reduce inflammation and may lower the risk of macular degeneration (Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, 2011).Another study was done with people over the age of 49.  Of the 3,000 participants, those who ate more fish were less likely to have macular degeneration.  Another source reported that eating fish once a week can cut the risk of having it in half.
    4. Zinc: This mineral, found in foods like oysters, fish, meat, pumpkin seeds and nuts, plays an important role in transporting vitamin A from the liver to the retina, aiding in increased protection for the eyes. A study published in a Journal of Ophthalmology (the study of eye disorders) found that a supplement with zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene reduced the risk of macular degeneration and also slowed down its progression.

Healing Foods for Macular Degeneration

Carrots: Are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A.  Carrots support retinal health and vision.

Sweet Potatoes: Another excellent source of beta-carotene, providing necessary nutrients to protect against macular degeneration.

Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins C and K, blueberries help fight oxidative stress in the eyes. A cousin of blueberries called bilberry has also shown benefits for eye health.

Eye Exercises and Lifestyle Actions

Eye Exercises: This includes looking away from close-up work or computer work at regular intervals and focusing on a distant object, and practicing “palming” (gently covering the eyes with your palms to relax them).  These can help reduce eye strain and improve overall eye health.

Lifestyle Tips: Quitting smoking, wearing sunglasses to protect from the sun’s rays, eating leafy greens, orange-colored vegetables and blueberries, and managing chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes, are essential in reducing the risk of macular degeneration.

By incorporating these natural remedies and lifestyle habits, you can effectively prevent or manage macular degeneration and protect your vision for the future.

This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original and effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II (also containing vitamin D and zinc), and Joints and More, a natural supplement with MSM for joint support, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.

Top 6 Remedies for an Eye With Floaters and Dry Eye

Posted on by

eye with floatersEye floaters can be an annoying condition that affects many people, especially as they age.

Floaters are those tiny spots, lines, or specks that seem to move around in your field of vision. These can be distracting or even cause anxiety about one’s eye health.

While there is no definitive cure for an eye with floaters, there are some natural remedies that have been shown to be effective in managing the condition and even improve it. Here are the top natural remedies for an eye with floaters and dry eye, backed by research:

  1. Bilberry: Bilberry is a plant that has been used for centuries to improve vision. It contains anthocyanins, which are powerful plant chemicals that protect the retina from damage. A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that bilberry extract improved visual function and reduced eye fatigue. During World War II, British fighter pilots reported improved nighttime vision after eating bilberry jam.
  2. Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that are found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts. They have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the inflammation that causes floaters. A study published in the journal Clinical Ophthalmology found that omega-3 supplementation improved the symptoms of dry eye syndrome, which is a common condition that can occur along with floaters.
  3. Ginkgo Biloba: Ginkgo Biloba is a tree native to China that has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions, including eye disorders. It contains flavonoids (plant pigments), which protect the eyes from damage. A study published in the International Journal of Ophthalmology found that Ginkgo Biloba extract improved visual function in people with glaucoma – a condition where there is increased pressure in the eyes.
  4. Natural Eye Extracts: Based on user reviews, supplements containing extracts of animal eye tissue have been used for reducing eye floaters and improving eye health. While there are no studies on these types of remedies yet, its a promising upcoming category of eye support.  Its use is based on the premise of “like cures like”.
  5. Eye exercises: There are several eye exercises that can help reduce the appearance of floaters. One of the most effective exercises is called the “eye circle” exercise. To do this exercise, simply look up and then move your eyes in a circle, clockwise and then counterclockwise. Repeat this exercise several times a day.
  6. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful vitamin that protects the eyes from damage and increases their health. It is found in many fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, strawberries, and broccoli. A study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology found that high levels of vitamin C in the diet were associated with a reduced risk of developing cataracts (a cloudy eye lens). Another study from Irish and German researchers found that an eye formula containing vitamin C reduced the severity of floaters and improved visual health.

While these natural remedies may or may not completely cure an eye with floaters, they can help to manage the symptoms and improve one’s overall eye health. Fresh leafy greens also contain valuable vitamins for the eyes.  If you are experiencing floaters, a visit to your eye doctor may be helpful.

Some good tips would be to eat a healthy diet containing colorful fruits and vegetables, and also adding some proven natural remedies (preferably one at a time to determine its effects).  Here’s to your enjoyment of clear, healthy vision for years to come.

This article was written for you by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II.

Kimberly B. of Troy, Michigan says: “I have been taking Sleep Minerals II for about a month now. I have tried everything out there and this supplement is amazing. I have suffered with insomnia for 2 1/2 years. I have also had restless leg syndrome my entire life and this is the first relief I’ve ever had…gone for a month now.”

For more information, visit the Sleep Minerals II page.