Why you should NEVER Ignore Vision Problems
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted December 29, 2023
Are you squinting to read this? Or maybe you’ve had some trouble reading road signs or the instructions on your medication bottles?
A blurry, fuzzy outlook on the world may be doing more than just obstructing your view…
New research reveals vision impairments can be an early warning sign of something far more serious.
And you could end up paying a HEFTY price if you ignore your poor eyesight.
Here’s what you need to know…
New research links vision problems to cognitive decline.
The study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that nearsightedness, farsightedness, and contrast sensitivity were ALL linked to a higher risk of dementia.
Having more than one of these eye problems made the link even stronger.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 12 million people in the U.S. NEED vision correction but DON’T have it, either because they haven’t been diagnosed or haven’t gotten eyeglasses.
But here’s the thing. Most of us don’t realize our eyesight is failing because it happens so slowly.
In fact, it happened to me a few years ago.
An ophthalmologist asked me if I wore my glasses while driving. I told her I did sometimes.
Her response shocked me. She said, “Your eyesight is bad enough that it’s illegal for you to drive without your glasses.”
Like me, many other folks don’t know they need glasses.
But you can stay ahead of vision problems and reduce your risk of them occurring by following these suggestions:
- Get regular eye exams to catch any vision issues early before they progress.
- Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, especially dark leafy greens like spinach. These contain antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin that support eye health.
- Supplement with lutein and zeaxanthin.
- Increase your intake of eye-protecting omega-3 fatty acids by eating fish, like salmon and tuna, or with a supplement.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from UV damage.
- Reduce your screen time and take frequent breaks to minimize digital eye strain. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Do eye exercises like rolling your eyes in all directions or blinking rapidly to relieve eye muscle tension.
- Use proper lighting and avoid glare to protect your vision. Position computer screens below eye level.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to maintain moisture in your eyes.
- Quit smoking and limit your exposure to secondhand Smoking increases your risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.
Consistently following these tips will support your eye health and can help you maintain good vision. But be sure to see an eye doctor immediately if you notice any sudden changes in your eyesight.
And another thing…
Here’s what else we’ve covered this week in Living Well Daily…
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The SECRET to Healthy Snacking Revealed
Healthy snacking can satisfy cravings, ward off hunger pangs, and sustain your energy all day long. The key is knowing WHAT to nibble on.
Surprising Depression Trigger CONFIRMED
Many of us run short on shuteye around the holidays. Good quality sleep is critical for MANY reasons. But this one may surprise you.
MAILBAG: My UNCENSORED Opinion About Drugs
I once was convinced everything could be cured by nature ALONE and drugs have NO place in healthcare. But it’s more complicated than that.
Pump the Brakes on Dementia and Parkinson’s
Research reveals THIS ancient practice can slow down and, in some cases, slash the severity of BOTH dementia and Parkinson’s.
Probiotic Secret SUPERCHARGES your Gut Health
An easy and effective way to boost your gut health and bump up your probiotic intake is to make more of THESE foods a part of your diet.
P.S. Natural “Vision Cocktail” saves eyesight!
Source:
Killeen OJ, et al., “Objectively Measured Visual Impairment and Dementia Prevalence in Older Adults in the US.” JAMA Ophthalmol. 2023;141(8):786–790. doi:10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2023.2854
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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