FAQ's
EYE Conditions
What is macular degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common condition affecting a very small part of the middle eye. It usually does not cause blindness.
What are cataracts?
Cataracts are when the lens in your eye becomes cloudy.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye condition where the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, becomes damaged usually caused by a build up of fluid in the front part of the eye, which can increases the pressure inside the eye.
What is diabetic retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes, caused by high blood sugar levels that damage the back of the eye (retina).
What is retinitis pigmentosa?
RP is a retinal dystrophy that affects the retina at the back of your eye.
Diet and EYE Health
Leafy greens such as Spinach, kale which contain Lutein & zeaxanthin help protect the macula from UV damage]
Oily fish, such as Mackerel, sardines, tuna, which contain Omega-3s help support cell membranes, relieve dry eyes
Orange & yellow produce such as Carrots, sweet potatoes, apricots are rich in Beta-carotene (Vit A) help essential for night vision and helps prevents dry eye
Citrus & berries inclding oranges, lemons contain Vitamin C an antioxidant that repairs eye tissue from free radical damage
Seeds & nuts such as almonds, sunflower seeds are rich in Vitamin E which supports cellular health in eye tissue
Beans & legumes such as black-eyed peas, kidney beans are rich in zinc which keeps the retina healthy and functioning
The six beneficial food groups each deliver a distinct nutrient, it's not just "eat healthily" in a vague sense. Lutein and zeaxanthin from leafy greens are particularly well-evidenced for AMD prevention, acting almost like an internal filter for damaging blue light and UV.
On the risk side, the sugar → diabetes → retinopathy pathway is worth emphasising, since diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in working-age adults, and the connection between dietary choices and that outcome is direct and well-established.
The framing around vascular health is also a strong thread the eye's tiny blood vessels (the choroid and retinal capillaries) are among the finest in the body, making them especially vulnerable to the effects of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and elevated cholesterol.
Sight Support West Cumbria
Our drop-in Centre is open Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4 pm
22 Lowther Street, Whitehaven, CA28 7DG
Tel: 01946 592474
Email: info@sight-support.org.uk
Sight Support West Cumbria, Charity No. 1211460
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