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Eye Deterioration?
Laura Stokoe
Question: The deterioration of eye health seems to be inevitable with age; what can I do to stop this natural process?
Answer: The way this question is phrased makes it appear that the
breakdown of our
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bodies over time is normal; in fact, it is not. The
weakening and deterioration of our bodies is a direct result of the
damage we do to it everyday. This damage includes constant worrying
and stress, smoking, not getting enough sleep, and feeding ourselves overprocessed,
non-nutritious junk.
You may not think it’s a big deal for your eyesight to deteriorate over time,
but it speaks volumes as to what’s going on inside your head (namely, your
brain). Here’s a fun fact: our eyes are made of the same material as our
brains; therefore, if the eyes are going, the brain is not far behind. However,
the damage does not have to be permanent! Your body has the unique
and amazing ability to completely renew itself; you just have to provide it
with the right materials to do so.
First off, essential fatty acids are a must to keep the cells healthy. They can
be found in coldwater fish, nuts, and seeds, as well as the extracted oils
from these foods. Supplementing with 1 tablespoon of fish oil everyday
after breakfast is a wonderful way to ensure a proper intake.
Next, antioxidants work wonders to protect the eyes from oxidative stress.
This term describes the damage caused by free radicals, whose main goal
in life is to become stable, which can only be done by causing damage
to our cells. Vitamins A, C and E, as well as CoQ10 and beta carotene (the
precursor to vitamin A) are all helpful. However, here’s an even better way
to guarantee a high intake of antioxidants: eat as many plant foods as
you can. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains (to name a few) all
possess something called phytonutrients. These are special chemicals (the
good kind) that protect plants from disease. When we eat them, the same
thing is done in our bodies; we become protected from disease.
Remember: instead of thinking, “The damage is done,” think, “The
damage can always be undone.” If you live by that rule, the results will be
astounding.
Laura Stokoe is a certified and registered holistic nutritionist, and is currently studying to become a personal trainer. She is the manager of the Supplement & Personal Care department at the Upper Gage location of Goodness Me!
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