Integrative Vision Care And Nutrition

by Dr. Marc Grossman, O.D., L.Ac.

Mind/Body medicine is based on the fact that our health and well-being depends on all the individual parts to work together effectively. So it should come as no surprise that healthy eyesight is also dependent upon our total well-being, which is affected by our genetic makeup, the food we eat, our work environment and exposure to airborne toxins, as well as our general belief systems about ourselves and the world we live in.

Each of us is unique and literally takes the world in through our senses, primarily through our vision. Many believe the way we take in the world is, to some degree, a reflection of who we are and which symptoms we might manifest. The integrative approach evaluates the person's lifestyle, habits, diet, exercise routine, and stress management, along with the family history, in determining a therapeutic approach. It attempts to bring in the patient as an active partner in the program to improve or maintain eye health. Specific habits have been identified in studies to be very damaging to eye health, including smoking, excessive alcohol, coffee, excess sugar and refined foods, and hydrogenated oils (like margarines).

Nutrition and Nutritional Supplementation

Nutrition and nutritional supplementation could play a key role in helping to prevent vision loss and keeping our bodies strong. More and more peer review studies are identifying specific nutrients, by eye disease, that are lacking in patients with diseases such as the following:

Glaucoma

Vitamin C, Omega-3 fatty acids, Coleus, Ginkgo, Magnesium - in parts of Europe and Asia, vitamin C is considered part of routine treatment for glaucoma. more ...

Macular Degeneration

Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Bilberry, Taurine, Zinc & Vinpocetine are important nutrients for macular degeneration.

See more info on essential nutrients for macular degeneration.

Cataracts

Vitamin C and Glutathione are especially helpful for cataracts. In addition, N-Acetyl Cysteine, Alpha Lipoic Acid, vitamin C, selenium, vitamin E, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, zinc, and other nutrients, while natural sources include eggs, broccoli, avocados, garlic, onions and cauliflower. more ...

However, nothing replaces a positive, healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, daily meditations or walks in nature and a healthy diet. The rapid pace of our lives often interferes with us taking the time to really take care of ourselves. Caring for ourselves helps to keep our bodies healthy, and maximizes the mind/body's inherent healing potential.

Our NaturalEyeCare site offers specific recommendations for many eye conditions and diseases.




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