IMPROVE YOUR EYESIGHT

NUTRITION
This is the key to eye problems not only because it can help correct disorder, but because it will prevent future problems from occuring. Don't forget the eye is dependent on the rest of the body for nourishment. In particular, the eyes rely on the liver and kidneys, as well as on the circulatory system, to eliminate toxins from the bloodstream and to metabolize and deliver the appropriate nutrients.
The vitamins and minerals associated with eye are vitamins E and D for the general maitenance of healthy eyes; vitamin A for proper liver metabolism and digestion; vitamin C for ridding the bloodstream of toxins; glutathione for helping rid the eye of excess fluid; selenium, the carotenoid, niacin for increasing circulation; all the B vitamins; omega 3 and 6 fatty acids (found in fish oils) proper muscle control. While these nutrients can all be taken in form of supplements, it is important to get them from ones diet as well. Overall, a low fat, diary free, vegetarian diet is a great way to get the nutrients essential for proper eye care.

HERBS
Herbs complement the nutrients a person receives from his or her diet. Specifically, herbs that allow for better circulation so that more nutrients can reach the eye are ginkgo biloba, gotu kola, and hawthorn berry.

VISION THERAPY
Dr Robert Micheal Kaplan, author of The power Behind Your Eyes, is a behavioral optemetrist who practises vision therapy. One of the best methods, Kaplan says, for correcting vision problems on an emotional and physical level is breath work. One technique he recommends is called the integrated breath. The method involves breathing in, breathing out, and then pausing. This is performed three to five times consecutively, in a slow manner to prevent hyperventilation.

ADDITIONAL THERAPIES
These include accupuncture and acupressure which are sometimes used to lessen tension and improve vision.

WHAT TO AVOID
Particular foods and environmental factors can be harmful to the eyes, resulting in vision impairment. These include sweetners, as they contain toxic substances which negatively affect the optic nerve; caffeine, which affects circulation; alcohol, as it can damage liver function; sugar, which may hinder enzyme funtion; lactose, a form of sugar found in diary products, exposure to direct sunlight, which can increase oxidative damage to the eyes.