How to Reduce Your Chances of Developing Cataracts

Cataracts affect as many as 24 million Americans aged 40 and older, with 50% of people over the age of 80 suffering from the condition. Unfortunately, there is no guaranteed preventive action that can stop the development of this age-related disease. However, your eye doctor emphasizes that you can greatly minimize the chances of developing cataracts by making some important lifestyle changes.

Read on as our specialists at Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic provide helpful advice on how to minimize the risk of developing cataracts later on in life.

A Balanced Diet

The food you eat can affect your eyesight, and making the right dietary decisions today can definitely pay off in the future. There are many optical care studies that show that eating foods rich in vitamins A, E and antioxidants can reduce your chances of developing cataracts. Eating such foods can also slow down the progression of existing cataracts.

Smoking

Smoking poses zero health benefits and carries an immense number of health risks. Aside from the obvious damage to your heart and lungs, smoking can also accelerate the growth of cataracts in your eyes. Smokers also tend to develop the condition much earlier in life compared to non-smokers.

Blood Sugar and Alcohol

Excessive consumption of sugary foods and alcoholic beverages may also have detrimental effects on your eyes. Consult with your optometrist if you experience any eye problems resulting from high blood sugar or alcohol consumption.

Learn more about cataracts and how they are treated by our expert eye doctors and optometrists at Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic, your leading eye care provider. Give us a call at (425) 771-8472 and (425) 485-0430 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists today. Our services are available in Bothell, WA, and nearby areas.