Most cataracts are a natural part of the aging process. It seems nearly inevitable that you will develop cataracts at some point later in life. By the age of 80, more than half of all Americans have had a cataract or cataract surgery. Although there is not strong scientific evidence that shows cataracts can be prevented, it may be possible to delay the formation of cataracts or slow their development. Because cataracts develop gradually, it may be possible to stave off their effect on your vision for a few years longer than anticipated.

Doctors will agree that adopting healthy lifestyle habits are not just necessary for life expectancy but will promote overall health. These healthy habits can be counted among the precautions you can take while you are young to prevent cataracts. These include eliminating any negative contributors to your health such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Smoking is not just harmful to your lungs and skin but to your eyes as well. In fact, smoking doubles the chances of cataract development. Drinking more than 2 alcoholic beverages a day, around 20 grams of alcohol, also increases your odds for cataracts. Keeping harmful chemicals out of your body is as important as putting the beneficial chemicals, such as antioxidants, into your body. Eating a nutrient-packed diet that includes vitamin specific fruits, green leafy vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acid will help protect the eyes. Foods rich in vitamins C and E may slow the growth of cataracts. Good sources of these vitamins include citrus, tomatoes, red and green peppers, kiwi broccoli, strawberries, brussels sprouts, cantaloupe, potatoes, spinach and almonds.

In addition to healthy eating, cataract prevention is linked to maintaining blood sugar levels especially if you have been diagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes puts you at greater risk for many eye conditions and diseases including cataracts. When blood sugar is elevated for too long, the lens of the eye changes blood sugar into sorbitol that eventually collects on the lens causing the formation of a cataract.

For more information regarding cataract development and precautions you can take while you are young to prevent cataracts, visit WEBSITE. To schedule a cataract evaluation at Eye Associates of Tucson call 520-888-6600 to learn how you can see clearly again after cataracts. Eye Associates of Tucson offers many successful solutions for reclaiming your best vision after cataract surgery.