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A cataract is a clouding that develops in the lens of
the eye and blur our vision, causing nearsightedness (myopia) and decreasing
our ability to detect the color blue. Left untreated, they may even cause
full blindness. Many people develop cataracts in later ages, but there are
ways to refrain from developing it, especially at an earlier age. Adhere
to these tips and you may prevent a cataract ever forming on your lens!
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Protect the eyes from the potential side effects of certain
medications. Prolonged use of steroids, tranquilizers, and psoriasis
medication may cause cataracts when taken in large doses over a long period
of time.
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Those suffering from diabetes should keep their blood
sugar under control. This is because diabetics tend to develop cataracts
faster and at an earlier age than other adults.
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Protect your eyes from ultraviolet sun rays as these
rays speed up the development of cataracts. Whenever out in the sun, wear
sunglasses.
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Studies have shown that antioxidant vitamins such as
vitamin C, vitamin E and beta carotene slow the development of cataracts.
Make sure your body doesn't lack any of these vitamins and if it does, take
supplements.
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If there is uncontrolled diabetes, injury to the eye,
or visual symptoms of decreased reading vision, consult an ophthalmologist to
evaluate the problem to help restore sight and prevent blindness.
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Foods like butter, oils (except olive oil) and salt,
and increased fat consumption in general has been associated with a higher
risk of developing cataracts. So, avoid using or limit the intake of such
foods.
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A diet rich in spinach, cruciferous vegetables (like
broccoli), tomatoes, peppers, citrus fruits and melons help prevent
cataracts.
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Avoid exposure to heavy metals, particularly cadmium,
copper, lead, iron and nickel as they may also increase cataract formation as
these metals have been found in cataractous lenses.
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Better to avoid smoking too.
Cataracts that occur due to the ageing process
cannot be prevented as the ageing process itself cannot be prevented, but
they can be delayed and fought against, so that you may not have to deal with
them when you get older.
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