Vitamins for the eyes with cataracts and glaucoma: complete leadership
Section 1: Cataract and Glaucoma: Review of Diseases
1.1. Cataract: clouding of the lens
Cataract is a progressive clouding of the lens of the eye, which leads to a deterioration in vision. The lens located inside the eye is usually transparent and focuses on the light on the retina, which allows us to see clearly. In cataract, the lens is cloudy, blocking the passage of light and causing blurry, foggy or fuzzy vision.
1.1.1. The reasons and risk factors of cataracts:
- Age: The most common cause of cataracts is age -related changes. With age, proteins in the lens begin to collapse and stick together, forming cloudings.
- Ultraviolet radiation: Long -term exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun can accelerate the development of cataracts.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes have a higher risk of cataracts. A high blood sugar may damage the lens.
- Smoking: Smoking is associated with an increased risk of cataract development.
- Alcohol: Excessive drinking can contribute to the development of cataracts.
- Corticosteroids: Long -term use of corticosteroids (for example, prednisolone) can increase the risk of cataracts.
- Eye injury: Eye injury can damage the lens and lead to cataract.
- Genetic predisposition: In some cases, cataracts can be hereditary.
- Other eyes of the eyes: Some eyes of the eyes, such as uveitis and retreating pigmentosis, can increase the risk of cataracts.
1.1.2. Symptoms of cataracts:
- Blurred or fuzzy vision: This is the most common symptom of cataracts.
- Increased sensitivity to light: Bright light can cause discomfort or blinding.
- Dangling in the eyes: In some cases, cataracts can cause double in the eyes.
- Difficulties with reading: Vision near may deteriorate, which makes it difficult to read.
- Changing flow perception: Colors may seem less bright or dull.
- The need to change glasses often: As cataract progresses, it may be necessary to change glasses or contact lenses more often.
- Galm around the light sources: Galo may appear around light sources.
1.1.3. Types of cataracts:
- Age cataracts: The most common type of cataract, developing with age.
- Subkapapsular cataracts: It develops on the back of the lens and is often associated with diabetes or the use of corticosteroids.
- Nuclear cataracts: It develops in the center of the lens and can cause myopia.
- Cortical cataracts: It develops in the crust of the lens (outer layer) and is characterized by knitting needles spreading from edge to center.
- Congenital cataracts: Present at birth or develops in early childhood.
- Traumatic cataracts: It develops as a result of eye injury.
- Secondary cataract: It develops after surgery to remove cataracts (back capsular cataracts).
1.1.4. Cataract treatment:
The only effective way to treat cataracts is the surgical removal of a clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial lens (intracular lens). Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safe surgical procedures in the world.
1.2. Glaucoma: Damage to the optic nerve
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases characterized by progressive damage to the optic nerve, which connects the eyes with the brain. This damage is often associated with increased intraocular pressure (IPD), although glaucoma can also develop with normal IOA. If it is not treated glaucoma, it can lead to irreversible loss of vision and blindness.
1.2.1. Causes and risk factors of glaucoma:
- Increased intraocular pressure (IOD): High I STAD can damage the optic fiber.
- Age: The risk of glaucoma development increases with age.
- Family history: If you have relatives with glaucoma, you have increased the risk of developing the disease.
- Breed: African Americans and Latin American people have a higher risk of glaucoma.
- Myopia: People with myopia have an increased risk of glaucoma.
- Fruise: Fruise can also be a risk factor.
- Diabetes: Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of glaucoma development.
- High blood pressure: High blood pressure can contribute to the development of glaucoma.
- Cardiovascular diseases: Cardiovascular diseases can affect the blood supply to the optic nerve.
- Corticosteroids: Long -term use of corticosteroids can increase the risk of glaucoma.
- Eye injury: Eye injury can damage the drainage system of the eye and lead to glaucoma.
1.2.2. Symptoms of glaucoma:
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Open -angle glaucoma:
- The initial stage: It usually proceeds asymptomatic. The loss of vision occurs gradually and often invisible until a significant part of the optic nerve is damaged.
- Late stage: Loss of peripheral vision (tunnel vision). Difficulties with orientation in space.
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Clothing glaucoma:
- Sharp attack: Severe pain in the eye, redness of the eye, blurred vision, rainbow circles around light sources, nausea and vomiting. This requires immediate medical care.
- Chronic Clovable Glaucoma: Symptoms can be less pronounced than with an acute fit, but still blurred vision, headaches and discomfort in the eye may include.
1.2.3. Types of glaucoma:
- Open -angle glaucoma: The most common type of glaucoma. There is a gradual damage to the optic nerve due to an increased CRS. The drainage system of the eye (trabecular network) does not work effectively enough.
- Clothing glaucoma: It occurs when the angle between the rainbow shell and the cornea narrows or closes, blocking the outflow of intraocular fluid. This can lead to a sharp increase in IOA (acute attack).
- Norma -Vocal glaucoma: The visual nerve is damaged, despite the normal IOA. The causes of this type of glaucoma have not been fully studied, but may include problems with the blood supply to the optic nerve.
- Congenital glaucoma: Present at birth or develops in early childhood. It is caused by defects in the drainage system of the eye.
- Secondary glaucoma: It develops as a result of other diseases of the eyes or system diseases, such as uvee, eye injury, diabetes or the use of corticosteroids.
1.2.4. Glaucoma treatment:
Treatment of glaucoma is aimed at reducing the IPD and the prevention of further damage to the optic nerve. Treatment may include:
- Eye drops: Different types of eye drops, such as analogues of prostaglandins, beta-blockers, alpha-adrenergic agonists and carbooanhydrase inhibitors, are used to reduce IOA.
- Laser surgery: Laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) and laser iridotomy can be used to improve the outflow of intraocular fluid.
- Microtinvasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS): A series of minimally invasive surgical procedures aimed at reducing IOA.
- Filter surgery: Trabekulectomy and installation of drainage devices are used to create a new path of outflow of intraocular fluid.
Section 2: The role of vitamins and nutrients in the health of the eyes with cataracts and glaucoma
Despite the fact that vitamins and nutrients cannot cure cataract or glaucoma, they can play an important role in maintaining the health of the eyes, slowing down the progression of diseases and protecting against further damage.
2.1. Antioxidants: protection against oxidative stress
Oxidative stress caused by free radicals plays an important role in the development of cataracts and glaucoma. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and protect the eye cells from damage.
2.1.1. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid):
- Role: A powerful antioxidant that helps protect the lens and retina from damage by free radicals. Vitamin C is also necessary for the synthesis of collagen, an important protein for the structure of the eyes.
- Cataracts: Studies have shown that high consumption of vitamin C is associated with a decrease in the risk of cataract development and a slowdown in its progression.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Vitamin C can help improve the blood circulation of the optic nerve and protect it from damage to free radicals.
- Sources: Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons), berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), kiwi, pepper, broccoli, spinach.
- Recommended dosage: 500-1000 mg per day.
2.1.2. Vitamin E (tocopherol):
- Role: Another powerful antioxidant that protects cell membranes from damage by free radicals.
- Cataracts: Studies have shown that vitamin E can help slow down the progression of cataracts.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Vitamin E can help improve blood circulation and protect the visual nerve from damage.
- Sources: Vegetable oils (sunflower, corn, olive), nuts (almonds, hazelnuts), seeds (sunflower, pumpkin), green leafy vegetables.
- Recommended dosage: 400 me per day.
2.1.3. Selenium:
- Role: A trace element that is an important component of glutathioneperoxidase, a powerful antioxidant enzyme.
- Cataracts: Selenium can help protect the lens from oxidative damage.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Selenium can help improve the optic function and protect it from damage.
- Sources: Brazilian nuts, seafood (tuna, cod, shrimp), liver, kidneys, eggs, mushrooms.
- Recommended dosage: 55 mcg per day.
2.2. Carotinoids: retinal protection
Carotinoids are a group of pigments contained in vegetables and fruits and have antioxidant properties. Luthein and Zeaksantin are the two most important carotenoids for the health of the eyes.
2.2.1. Lutein and Zeaxanthin:
- Role: These carotenoids accumulate in the retina, especially in the macula, and protect it from damage in blue light and free radicals. They also improve visual function and reduce the risk of age -related macular degeneration (VMD).
- Cataracts: Luthein and Zeaksantin can help protect the lens from oxidative damage and reduce the risk of cataracts.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Luthein and Zeaksantin can help improve the blood supply to the optic nerve and protect it from damage.
- Sources: Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale cabbage, Romen salad), corn, egg yolk, oranges.
- Recommended dosage: 10-20 mg of lutein and 2-4 mg of Zeaksanthin per day.
2.2.2. Beta-carotene:
- Role: The predecessor of vitamin A, which is important for the health of the retina and night vision.
- Cataracts: Beta-carotene can help protect the lens from oxidative damage.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Beta-carotene can help improve the optic nerve function.
- Sources: Carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, apricots, mangoes.
- Recommended dosage: The dosage should be agreed with the doctor, since the excess of beta-carotene can be harmful to smokers.
2.3. Omega-3 fatty acids: maintaining healthy blood circulation and nerves
Omega-3 fatty acids, especially daily-sosaexenoic acid (DGK) and eicopascentaenoic acid (EPC), are important for the health of the retina and optic nerve.
2.3.1. DHK and EPA:
- Role: DGC is the main structural component of the retina and is important for a normal visual function. EPC has anti -inflammatory properties and can help protect the visual nerve from damage.
- Cataracts: Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the risk of cataracts.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Omega-3 fatty acids can help improve the blood supply to the optic nerve, reduce intraocular pressure and protect the visual nerve from damage.
- Sources: Fat fish (salmon, tuna, sardins, mackerel), linen seed, chia, walnuts.
- Recommended dosage: 1000-2000 mg per day (DGK and EPK).
2.4. B vitamins: maintaining the function of nerves
B vitamins play an important role in maintaining the health of the nervous system, including the visual nerve.
2.4.1. Vitamin V1 (TIAMIN):
- Role: Glucose is important for metabolism, which is the main source of energy for nerve cells.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Vitamin B1 can help improve the optic function and protect it from damage.
- Sources: Pork, peas, beans, nuts, seeds, whole grain products.
2.4.2. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine):
- Role: Participates in the metabolism of amino acids and neurotransmitters that are important for the function of the nervous system.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Vitamin B6 can help improve the optic function.
- Sources: Chicken, fish, bananas, potatoes, nuts, seeds.
2.4.3. Vitamin V12 (Cobalamin):
- Role: It is important for the formation of myelin, the protective membrane of the nerve fibers.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to damage to the optic nerve. Additional intake of vitamin B12 can help improve the optic nerve function.
- Sources: Meat, fish, eggs, dairy products. Vitamin B12 additives should take vegetarians and vegans.
2.4.4. Folic acid (vitamin B9):
- Role: Important for the growth and division of cells, as well as for the synthesis of DNA and RNA.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Folic acid can help improve the blood supply to the optic nerve.
- Sources: Dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, citrus fruits.
2.5. Zinc:
- Role: A trace element that is important for the health of the retina and optic nerve. Zinc is involved in vitamin A metabolism and protects cells from oxidative damage.
- Cataracts: Zinc can help slow down the progression of cataracts.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Zinc can help improve the optic function.
- Sources: Red meat, poultry, seafood, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grain products.
- Recommended dosage: 15-30 mg per day.
2.6. Magnesium:
- Role: A mineral that is important for the health of the nervous system and blood circulation.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Magnesium can help improve the blood circulation of the optic nerve and reduce ICD.
- Sources: Dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grain products, legumes.
- Recommended dosage: 200-400 mg per day.
2.7. Alpha-lipoic acid (Alk):
- Role: A powerful antioxidant that can restore other antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E.
- Advantages in glaucoma: Alc can help protect the visual nerve from damage and improve blood supply.
- Sources: It is produced in the body, but also contained in small quantities in red meat, liver and vegetables (spinach, broccoli).
- Recommended dosage: 300-600 mg per day.
2.8. Coenzim Q10 (COQ10):
- Role: The antioxidant that is involved in the production of energy in cells.
- Advantages in glaucoma: COQ10 can help improve the function of mitochondria in optic cells and protect them from damage.
- Sources: It is produced in the body, but also contained in meat, fish, nuts and vegetable oils.
- Recommended dosage: 100-300 mg per day.
Section 3: Recommendations for nutrition and taking vitamins in cataract and glaucoma
3.1. General recommendations for nutrition:
- Balanced nutrition: Eat a variety of foods rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low -fat protein and healthy fats.
- Limiting sugar and processed products: Avoid products with a high sugar content, processed products and trans fats, which can contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation.
- The use of enough water: Maintaining hydration is important for the general health and health of the eyes.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of cataracts and glaucoma.
- Regular physical exercises: Exercise helps improve blood circulation and general health.
- Refusal of smoking: Smoking is associated with an increased risk of cataracts and glaucoma development.
- Moderate alcohol consumption: Excessive drinking can contribute to the development of cataracts.
3.2. Specific recommendations for nutrition for cataracts:
- Increase the consumption of antioxidants: Eat more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium.
- Use products rich in carotenoids: Include dark green leafy vegetables, corn and egg yolks in your diet.
- Get a sufficient amount of omega-3 fatty acids: Eat fatty fish or take Omega-3 additives.
- Limit sugar and processed products: This will help reduce oxidative stress.
3.3. Specific recommendations for nutrition for glaucoma:
- Increase nitrate intake: Nitrates contained in leafy vegetables, such as beets and spinach, can help improve the blood supply to the optic nerve.
- Use products rich in antioxidants: Eat more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium and carotenoids.
- Get a sufficient amount of omega-3 fatty acids: Eat fatty fish or take Omega-3 additives.
- Maintain healthy weight: Obesity can increase intraocular pressure.
- Limit caffeine consumption: Caffeine can temporarily increase intraocular pressure in some people.
- Follow the drinking mode: Drink enough water during the day, but avoid simultaneous use of a large amount of liquid.
3.4. Recommendations for taking vitamin additives:
- Consult a doctor: Before taking any vitamin additives, you need to consult a doctor to make sure that they are safe for you and do not interact with any drugs that you take.
- Choose quality additives: Choose additives from reliable manufacturers who have passed cleanliness and efficiency.
- Take additives in accordance with the instructions: Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
- Do not expect instant results: Vitamins and nutrients act gradually and may not lead to immediate vision improvements.
- Combine the reception of additives with a healthy lifestyle: Taking vitamin additives is most effective in combination with a balanced nutrition, regular physical exercises and other healthy habits.
3.5. Special eyes for the eyes of the eyes:
- AREDS 2 formula: The formula developed by the National Institute of the Eye of the United States (NEI) to reduce the risk of progression of age -related macular degeneration (VMD). Contains vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, zeaxantin and zinc. Although the formula has been developed for the VMD, some studies show that it can also be useful for people with cataracts.
- Lutein supplements and zeaxanths: It can be useful for people with cataracts and glaucoma, especially if they do not get enough of these carotenoids from food.
- Additives with omega-3 fatty acids: It can be useful for people with glaucoma, especially if they do not eat enough fat fish.
Section 4: Scientific research and evidence of the effectiveness of vitamins for the eyes
Despite the fact that many studies show that vitamins and nutrients can be useful for the health of the eyes, it is important to note that the results of the research are ambiguous, and additional studies are needed to confirm these conclusions.
4.1. Studies of vitamin C and cataracts:
- Some studies have shown that high consumption of vitamin C is associated with a decrease in the risk of cataract development and a slowdown in its progression.
- However, other studies did not discover a significant connection between the consumption of vitamin C and the risk of cataract development.
4.2. Studies of vitamin E and cataracts:
- Some studies have shown that vitamin E can help slow down the progression of cataracts.
- However, other studies did not find a significant connection between vitamin E consumption and the risk of cataract development.
4.3. Carotinoid studies (Lutheina and Zeaksanthin) and cataracts:
- Some studies have shown that Luthein and Zeaxantin can help protect the lens from oxidative damage and reduce the risk of cataracts.
- However, other studies did not discover a significant connection between the consumption of Luthein and Zeaksanthin and the risk of cataract development.
4.4. Research omega-3 fatty acids and cataracts:
- Some studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the risk of cataracts.
- However, other studies did not discover a significant connection between the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids and the risk of cataract development.
4.5. Studies of vitamin C and glaucoma:
- Some studies have shown that vitamin C can help improve the blood supply to the optic nerve and protect it from damage to free radicals.
- However, other studies did not discover a significant connection between vitamin C consumption and the risk of glaucoma development.
4.6. Studies of vitamin E and glaucoma:
- Some studies have shown that vitamin E can help improve blood circulation and protect the visual nerve from damage.
- However, other studies did not discover a significant connection between vitamin E consumption and the risk of glaucoma development.
4.7. Studies of carotenoids (Lutheina and Zeaksanthin) and glaucoma:
- Some studies have shown that Luthein and Zeaxantin can help improve the blood supply to the optic nerve and protect it from damage.
- However, other studies did not discover a significant connection between the consumption of Luthein and Zeaksanthin and the risk of glaucoma development.
4.8. Studies of omega-3 fatty acids and glaucomas:
- Some studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help improve blood supply to the optic nerve, reduce intraocular pressure and protect the visual nerve from damage.
- However, other studies did not discover a significant connection between the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids and the risk of glaucoma development.
4.9. Studies of other vitamins and minerals and glaucomas:
- Some studies have shown that vitamins of group B, zinc, magnesium and alpha-lipoic acid can be useful for the health of the optic nerve in glaucoma.
- However, additional studies are needed to confirm these conclusions.
4.10. Important comments on scientific research:
- Research results are often ambiguous and can contradict each other.
- Additional studies are needed to confirm the conclusions about the benefits of vitamins and nutrients for the health of the eyes.
- The results of studies may depend on various factors, such as dosage, duration of administration, genetic predisposition and general health.
- Vitamins and nutrients cannot cure cataracts or glaucoma, but they can help maintain eye health and slow down the progression of diseases.
Section 5: Precautions and contraindications
Taking vitamin additives can be useful for the health of the eyes, but it is important to observe precautions and know about possible contraindications.
5.1. Consultation with a doctor:
Before taking any vitamin additives, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take medications. The doctor can evaluate your individual needs and risks and give recommendations on the optimal dosage and selection of additives.
5.2. Possible side effects:
Some vitamins and minerals can cause side effects, especially with high dosages. Possible side effects include:
- Vitamin C: Diarya, nausea, abdominal pain.
- Vitamin E: An increased risk of bleeding, especially when taking anticoagulants.
- Beta-carotene: Increased risk of lung cancer among smokers.
- Zinc: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, copper deficiency.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Fish belching, nausea, diarrhea, increased risk of bleeding.
5.3. Interaction with drugs:
Some vitamins and minerals can interact with drugs, reducing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It is important to inform your doctor about all the drugs and additives that you take.
5.4. Contraindications:
Some vitamins and minerals are contraindicated in certain diseases. For example:
- Vitamin K: Contraindicated to people taking anticoagulants (for example, warfarin).
- Iron: Contraindicated to people with hemochromatosis.
5.5. Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any vitamin additives. Some vitamins and minerals can be harmful to the fetus or child.
5.6. Individual intolerance:
Some people may have individual intolerance to certain vitamins and minerals. If you experience any unpleasant symptoms after taking a vitamin supplement, stop taking it and consult a doctor.
5.7. Excessive use:
Excessive use of vitamins and minerals can be harmful to health. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
5.8. Quality of additives:
Choose vitamin additives from reliable manufacturers who have passed cleanliness and efficiency.
Section 6: Conclusion: Integrative approach to eye health
In conclusion, although vitamins and nutrients cannot cure cataract or glaucoma, they can play an important role in maintaining the health of the eyes, slowing down the progression of diseases and protecting against further damage. It is important to adhere to a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat protein and healthy fats. Before taking any vitamin additives, you need to consult a doctor to make sure that they are safe for you and do not interact with any drugs that you take. An integrative approach to the health of the eyes, including a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle, regular examinations of a doctor and taking vitamin additives on the recommendation of a doctor, can help maintain vision for many years. Regular examinations by an ophthalmologist are the cornerstone of the prevention and timely treatment of cataracts and glaucoma. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help prevent an irreversible loss of vision.