A cataract is an eye condition that occurs when the clear, natural lens inside your eye, just behind your iris, turns cloudy. This typically occurs as part of the aging process, and it will cause vision changes. The only way to eliminate cataracts is with surgery, but many people try to avoid an invasive procedure. As a result, some people look to supplements, such as garlic, to help prevent or slow down cataract progression. Consult a doctor before taking an herbal remedy to treat a condition.
Symptoms
In the early stages of cataracts, you may not have any noticeable symptoms. As the cataract thickens and continues to cloud, you may experience blurry vision and need to change your eyeglass prescription. Cataracts often have a yellowish appearance, and this may slowly affect your color vision. Continued growth may result in glare conditions that may make you feel uncomfortable while driving at night. Your vision may seem blurry, but a new eyeglass prescription will not correct these vision changes. In advanced cases, cataracts may cause double vision in one or both eyes.
Garlic
Garlic is a common ingredient in many recipes. In addition to its characteristic aroma and flavor, garlic contains antioxidants components that in theory may help slow the break down of the lens. Garlic does not have any known effect on cataracts, but if your doctor believes the antioxidants in garlic could offer you preventative benefits, she will advise you accordingly.
Additional Sources
Since garlic alone may not provide you with the antioxidants you need for cataract prevention, your doctor may recommend a variety of foods for the best possible protection. She may recommend lutein-rich foods such as kale, spinach, yellow corn and green peas, as well as foods with vitamin C, including oranges, tomatoes and bananas. Foods containing vitamin E may also help prevent cataracts, and these include many nuts and seeds, for example, almonds, peanuts and sunflower seeds. Your doctor can help you formulate a dietary plan that will provide you with these and other nutrients you need to maintain good health.
Considerations
Do not take garlic supplements unless directed by your doctor. These supplements may cause side effects such as gastric upset, halitosis, body odor and skin irritation, and some people may also experience more serious symptoms such as headaches, change in appetite, and dizziness. Your doctor can help you weigh these possible side effects against the potential benefits of using garlic for your health.
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