Cataracts, or blind spots in the lens of the eye, are a common affliction of aging. Unfortunately, people with diabetes are at a much higher risk of developing cataracts. Part of the reason for the increased risk relates to how cataracts are formed in the first place.
Cataracts develop as a result of a process known as glycation, which occurs when sugars react with proteins to produce harmful substances called advanced glycation end products (AGEs). To understand glycation’s effects on the eyes, I like to use the analogy of cracking an egg into a hot frying pan. The clear part of the egg turns white as the proteins undergo glycation. Likewise, when glycation occurs in the protein-dense lens of the eye, the eye clouds over with cataracts.
Because it can take months to years for a cataract to have a noticeable effect on vision once it begins to form, it is important that people managing diabetes have regular eye exams. They should also do all they can to maintain near-normal blood sugar levels—and be open to seeking natural diabetes treatments, including nutritional supplements that help protect the eyes.
Search this blog for information about these and other natural remedies for diabetes.
For more information on Dr. Whitaker's recommendations for healthy daily living, visit www.drwhitaker.com.
Cataracts develop as a result of a process known as glycation, which occurs when sugars react with proteins to produce harmful substances called advanced glycation end products (AGEs). To understand glycation’s effects on the eyes, I like to use the analogy of cracking an egg into a hot frying pan. The clear part of the egg turns white as the proteins undergo glycation. Likewise, when glycation occurs in the protein-dense lens of the eye, the eye clouds over with cataracts.
Because it can take months to years for a cataract to have a noticeable effect on vision once it begins to form, it is important that people managing diabetes have regular eye exams. They should also do all they can to maintain near-normal blood sugar levels—and be open to seeking natural diabetes treatments, including nutritional supplements that help protect the eyes.
Search this blog for information about these and other natural remedies for diabetes.
For more information on Dr. Whitaker's recommendations for healthy daily living, visit www.drwhitaker.com.
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