A clear lens is sits behind your iris, and due to age, injury or other conditions, the proteins that make up the lens may break apart and form clumps. This condition, called a cataract, causes vision changes, but surgery will restore vision. To avoid surgery, many people take supplements, such as flax oil, to prevent cataracts. Knowing about flax oil will help you determine if the supplement is appropriate for you.
Flax Oil
Flax oil, also known as flax seed oil, contains omega-3 fatty acids. This nutrient promotes healthy growth, but it may also aid in slowing down or preventing the breakdown of the proteins in your lens. The dosage of flax oil will vary for each person, and this will depend on your overall health, as well as the medications you currently take. Your doctor will help you determine the right amount of flax oil to take each day.
Other Sources
In addition to flax oil, a number of other sources will provide you with beneficial omega-3 for cataract prevention. Doctors commonly recommend fish oil capsules, but you can also take in omega-3 through your diet by eating foods such as salmon, tuna and walnuts. Instead of flax oil, you may also use ground flax seed, an easy addition to your morning cereal or added to a salad.
Additional Prevention
Flax oil may help prevent cataracts, but you may also talk with your doctor about other nutrients that may offer preventative benefits. These nutrients include vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. These vitamins provide antioxidants that may protect the cells in your lens. Other antioxidant nutrients, such as lutein and zeaxanthin may also provide protection.
Considerations
Flax oil and other omega-3 sources cannot repair the damage to your natural lens. You should not take flax oil without first talking with your doctor, since omega-3 may increase the risk of bleeding if you take anticoagulant medications. If you notice changes to your vision and suspect cataracts caused the change, contact your doctor for an evaluation.
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