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As people age, their eyesight deteriorates.

Some causes are health-related, such as diabetes, while others, like presbyopia, are natural and unavoidable. Maintaining a healthy diet and managing insulin levels early can help slow the decline of vision. One of the most beneficial supplements for eye health is carotenoids, which protect vision and are found in yellow, orange, and red pigmented fruits and vegetables.

Carotenoids Aid Eye Health

Carotenoids are fat-soluble compounds that exist in various forms, classified into two groups: xanthophylls and carotenes. Xanthophylls are particularly important for eye health and include non-provitamin A antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are found in the retina and help absorb blue light. Vegetables rich in these nutrients include kale, corn, spinach, avocado, and egg yolks. Incorporating these foods into a daily diet can help prevent, slow, or even reverse eye damage.

If carotenoids are not consumed regularly, eye health can decline over time, potentially leading to macular degeneration or even blindness.

What Is Macular Degeneration or AMD?

Macular degeneration, or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is an eye condition that impairs central vision, making it difficult to see fine details. It is the leading cause of vision loss in the United States. People over the age of 50 who suffer from AMD experience damage to the macula, a structure located at the back of the eye responsible for central vision.

There are two types of AMD: dry and wet. Approximately 90% of individuals with AMD have the dry form, which can progress into the more severe wet form over time.

Symptoms may develop gradually and go unnoticed in the early stages. Some common signs of AMD include:

• Difficulty seeing in low or dim lighting
• Low vision
• Reduced color perception or low saturation
• Straight lines appearing curved or wavy (e.g., road lines)
• Blank or dark spots in the field of vision

How to Prevent or Treat AMD

There are several ways to prevent macular degeneration. As mentioned earlier, consuming carotenoids can help reduce and prevent vision deterioration. Other preventive measures include regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight.

If diagnosed with AMD, treatment options are available, but there is no cure. Alternatives include:

• AREDS 2 – A specialized multivitamin formula containing lutein and zeaxanthin
• Surgery – Implanting a telescopic lens in one eye to magnify the field of vision
• Vision Rehabilitation – Working with an occupational therapist or ophthalmologist to optimize remaining vision

Even if you have good vision, it is recommended to schedule routine eye exams. Many eye diseases develop without noticeable symptoms, making early detection crucial. Consulting with an eye care provider ensures proper monitoring and timely intervention.

Key Takeaways

Maintaining a steady intake of carotenoids is a simple yet powerful way to protect vision and prevent macular degeneration. While genetics and aging influence eye health, lifestyle choices — such as nutrition, exercise, and regular eye care — play a significant role in preserving long-term visual clarity.

Incorporating carotenoid-rich foods into daily meals helps safeguard against age-related macular degeneration (AMD) while also supporting retinal function, allowing individuals to maintain sharper vision as they age. With increasing technology use, prolonged exposure to blue light from screens can strain the eyes, making carotenoids even more essential in shielding the macula from potential damage.

Beyond diet, staying active and minimizing oxidative stress through regular exercise and proper hydration enhances the body’s ability to absorb and utilize carotenoids effectively. The key is to adopt preventive habits early, ensuring strong and resilient vision well into later years.

By making carotenoid consumption a priority, scheduling routine eye exams, and committing to healthy lifestyle choices, individuals can strengthen their eyesight, preserve visual clarity, and reduce the risk of AMD. Investing in eye health today promotes greater independence, mobility, and overall wellbeing in the future.

In the past decade, time spent on phones and tablets has increased exponentially worldwide.

Gen Z (ages 13 to 28) has been reported as the group with the highest screen time, averaging approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes per day. Gen Alpha (ages 0 to 12), often referred to as “iPad kids,” is the most tech-savvy generation, with 39% of toddlers to pre-teens spending an average of 3 hours a day on screens. These high levels of screen time have contributed to the ongoing battle against childhood obesity by reducing physical activity, encouraging the consumption of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods, and causing sleep deprivation. Each of these factors can negatively impact a child’s health, school performance, concentration, and ability to socialize.

Lack of Physical Activity and Obesity

Over the last quarter-century, the rate of obesity among children in America has tripled, with the lack of physical exercise being one of the primary causes. When children are less active, they are more likely to gain weight, although genetics, hormones, and other factors can also play a role. Excessive screen time typically involves prolonged sitting or lying down, which slows the body’s metabolic rate. Over time, this sedentary behavior can lead to weight gain, hypertension, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

The rise of targeted food advertising has made it easier for companies to market their products to children rather than to adults. Young children have difficulty distinguishing between programming and advertising, making them more susceptible to persuasion. Once an advertisement influences a child, they may request the product from their parents, who often comply. Studies show that three out of four food advertisements directed at children promote unhealthy options high in sugar and fat. This type of marketing has led to an increased consumption of junk food. Additionally, the widespread use of social media and image-enhancing filters has caused many adolescents to struggle with body image. In an attempt to control their weight, some engage in harmful dieting behaviors that potentially may lead to obesity. Over time, these unhealthy habits can result in diabetes, heart problems, low self-esteem, bullying, and depression.

Without proper regulation of screen time, children may suffer from sleep deprivation, another significant factor in obesity. Many children develop an addiction to technology, making it difficult for them to manage their time effectively. Insufficient sleep can disrupt hormone balance, interfering with the body’s ability to regulate appetite. These imbalances can increase hunger, leading to excessive calorie intake and weight gain. Additionally, poor sleep patterns can affect concentration, mood, and overall cognitive development, making it harder for children to perform well in school and maintain social connections.

Cut Down on Screen Time

Experts recommend limiting children’s screen time to a maximum of two hours per day. Parents and caregivers should encourage children to participate in physical activities, such as sports and exercise programs, to maintain a healthy metabolic rate. Incorporating nutritious foods, including more fruits and vegetables, into daily meals can also prevent obesity and promote long-term wellness. Family mealtimes without screens can foster mindful eating habits and discourage a sedentary lifestyle. Moreover, establishing and monitoring a consistent sleep schedule will help children regulate their screen time, ensuring they get adequate rest each night.

Parental guidance plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s relationship with technology and overall health. Parents who set clear boundaries for screen time and actively engage in their children’s activities help create a balanced lifestyle. By modeling healthy habits, such as limiting their own device use, encouraging outdoor play, and preparing nutritious meals, parents can positively influence their children’s wellbeing. Educational conversations about digital consumption, media literacy, and the effects of excessive screen time can also empower children to make healthier choices on their own. Establishing a supportive environment where children feel motivated to adopt active and mindful behaviors will reduce the likelihood of long-term health complications associated with prolonged screen exposure.

Approximately 50 million Americans suffer from substance abuse or a related disorder.

Substance abuse, also known as drug addiction, is a condition that affects a person’s brain and behavior, leading to an inability to control the use of legal or illegal drugs or medications. A myriad of factors can contribute to addiction, including past trauma, peer pressure, mental health disorders, illness, and experimentation. Recognizing that you or a loved one has a substance abuse problem is the first step to overcoming it. The next step involves seeking treatment options tailored to individual needs.

Treatment Options at Your Fingertips

Not every case of substance abuse is the same. Some individuals struggle with addiction alongside a mental health disorder, while others may require specialized prescription plans or rehabilitation programs. To determine the most effective treatment approach, it is best to consult a healthcare provider or mental health specialist who can provide a thorough assessment. However, it is beneficial to be aware of all available treatment options.

Detoxification – The first step in combating addiction and preventing relapse involves detoxing the body from harmful substances. Medical detox helps stabilize withdrawal symptoms and supports a smooth transition to further treatment.

Inpatient Rehab – For those requiring intensive care, inpatient rehab facilities provide 24/7 monitoring and support. These programs remove individuals from environmental stressors, offer professional guidance, and help them remain substance-free long term. Treatment options may include cognitive behavioral therapy, peer support groups, and strategies for managing co-occurring disorders.

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) – Depending on the level of care needed, some healthcare professionals may recommend PHPs rather than inpatient rehab. These programs are less time-intensive, allowing patients to return home after treatment sessions. Patients typically attend treatment for at least six hours per day, receiving similar care to inpatient rehab.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) – IOPs require 9 to 20 hours of treatment per week, making them more flexible than PHPs. Designed for individuals who can manage work and daily responsibilities while recovering, IOPs offer structured support without full hospitalization.

Side Effects

While seeking treatment is essential to overcoming addiction, it is equally important to be aware of potential side effects. Detoxing from drugs can lead to mood swings, anxiety, depression, and physical discomfort such as headaches, nausea, and intense cravings. Healthcare providers may prescribe medications to help manage symptoms. For instance, methadone and clonidine are often used to treat withdrawal from alcohol-related substances.

If you or a loved one is facing substance abuse, consult a doctor or healthcare provider about treatment options. Some approaches may be more suitable than others, so it is important to understand available programs and collaborate with professionals to find the best path forward. By creating a personalized plan, individuals can take control of their lives and work toward lasting recovery.