Recently my mother had cataracts removed from her eyes. I accompanied her both times to the very busy waiting room for a routine 5-minute surgery. According to the National Health Institute, by age 80 more than half of all Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery.
What is a cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision and are very common in older people. By age 80, more than half of all Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery.
A cataract can occur in either or both eyes. It cannot spread from one eye to the other.
Why are cataracts developed?
Researchers point to activities such as smoking and diabetes. They also suggest it could be the protein in the lens changes from wear and tear over the years.
Could other factors be to blame, such as certain types of drugs?
Sayer Ji, founder of GreenMedinfo shows evidence that Statin drugs could have a significant influence for the development of cataracts. (GreenMedinfo, founded by Sayer Ji has a wealth of research based educational articles and data.)
Personally, I have never taken Statins (a cholesterol reducing drug) and my husband stopped taking them years ago when I learned about the possible diseases (now at 349) associated with their use. His father had Lou Gehrig's disease and it was mystery for his family. Yes, his father took Statin drugs for decades and yes, Lou Gehrig’s disease has been linked to Statin drugs. That info along with the muscle fatigue my husband experienced, after beginning Statins, was enough for him to stop using them.
What is cholesterol and why do I have it?
Very simply put, cholesterol is produced by the body to build and repairs: builds tissues, repairs damaged ones. The human body manufactures cholesterol as a vital function for balance and thus good health. It is not possible for humans to eat enough cholesterol containing foods everyday to supply the amount of cholesterol needed. The problem is not the cholesterol, it is oxidative stress that occurs as a result of inflammation and poorly absorbed vital nutrients. How can cataracts be prevented?
There are two key components to excellent health, both involve nutrients. What you think and what you eat. Your attitude has as much affect on how your body behaves metabolically as the food you put in your mouth. Both are important. Good nutrition is needed for the mind and for cellular activity.
In the article linked below, Sayer Ji explains about 4 good ways to prevent the development of Cataracts. One is to avoid Statin drugs and the others are nutrient based. I will add my own: take care of your thought life. Focus on the good in life and do your best to do good to others. We all need each other to be the best we can be!
4 Ways to Keep From Losing Your Eyesight (Cataracts)
Julia Parsell is a Certified Holistic Health Counselor with an emphasis on the intersection of science and the sacred. She writes from experiences and transformative understandings that have led her to an authentic and peaceful life. She goes by these names: wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend. As a home educator of her three children, she also developed/ran cafes, and maintained various leadership roles within her community. Her greatest desire is to encourage others to live life fully. Her passions are family, writing, and trail blazing. She is happily married in Western North Carolina. Please visit her blog here.
