Blend Away Cataracts: An Eye-Opening Smoothie from a U.S. Doctor
With millions affected by cataracts each year, this fruit smoothie could offer a tasty barrier against this vision-clouding condition.
(Photo: shutterstock)Those who suffer from cataracts know it's an unpleasant condition that can impair vision and even lead to blindness. As we age, more people are developing cataracts. Thankfully, Hashem has provided treatments, but they often come with unwelcome side effects. That's why American doctor Eric Berg has been investigating the root causes of cataracts and offering an alternative approach for treatment and prevention.
Understanding Cataracts
Cataracts involve a problem with the eye's lens. As the condition progresses, vision becomes clouded because the lens turns opaque, making it difficult to see through.
Dr. Berg identifies glycation—where sugar combines with protein or fat—as a main factor in cataract development. The more glycation occurs in the lens, the more likely one is to experience eye issues. Other contributing factors include aging, long-term steroid use, chronic stress, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, exposure to microwaves, frequent fast-food consumption, exposure to certain chemicals, oxidation, and a high-sugar diet.
(Photo: shutterstock)Our eyes are heavily influenced by blood sugar levels. High blood sugar leads to significant oxidative stress in various tissues, including the eyes. Though our bodies produce antioxidants, aging might reduce this production, especially if one's diet is suboptimal. Dr. Berg recommends a healthy diet and highlights effective natural remedies for cataracts: intermittent fasting, eating cruciferous vegetables, consuming egg yolks (from free-range chickens), selenium, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, NAC, vitamin B1, and vitamin B2.
(Photo: shutterstock)To address antioxidant issues as we age (and at any age), Dr. Berg suggests consuming fruits and vegetables rich incarotenoids and anthocyanins, and offers the following smoothie recipe:
• 1 cup of berries
• 1 cup of kefir (a special yogurt drink available at specialty stores or made at home using milk and a store-bought culture)
Mix the ingredients, adding water if needed. Consume once daily. Alongside this remedy, Berg emphasizes a low-sugar and low-dairy diet.
Note that this should not be taken as a blanket recommendation for all cataract patients, and it's crucial to consult a doctor before making any dietary changes or taking supplements.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not substitute for professional medical advice.
