ALTERNATIVE METHODS OF EYE CARE
A variety of alternative therapies exist that help prevent and treat eye diseases. This brief review is meant to inform you of these options. I recommend that anyone with a serious eye disorder consult an optometrist (Doctor of Optometry) or ophthalmologist (Medical Doctor) for standard diagnosis and treatment recommendations. These alternatives are intended to assist in returning the eye function towards normalcy and are not a replacement for standard care.
Good nutrition is vital for healthy eyes. The following nutrients have evidence showing benefit for healthy eyesight.
- Zinc - decreased levels can contribute to cataracts. Supplements retard vision loss in macular degeneration
- Selenium – this anti-oxidant trace mineral prevents cataracts and may also help slow visual loss in macular degeneration
- Vitamin C – a potent anti-oxidant that may prevent cataracts
- Vitamin E – low levels contribute to cataracts and may also help in macular degeneration
- Vitamin A – essential for normal eye function, especially night vision
- N-acetylcysteine – a potent anti-oxidant that may prevent cataracts
- Flavonoids – chemicals in foods that improve night vision and slow hemorrhage in diabetic retinopathy. Found in blueberries, grapes, citrus, bilberry, and green tea. Can be taken as supplements
- Ginkgo biloba – an herb that improves blood supply to the eye and may help prevent cataracts
Behavioral optometry is the teaching of skills in visual perception
to improve eyesight. By practicing exercises and learning to
program the brain in new ways to see, people can improve vision
and also learning abilities based on vision. Contact the College
of Optometrists in Vision
Development, Box 285, Chula Vista, CA 91912. 619-425-6191
Syntonic optometry is the use of colored light to treat crossed eyes, lazy eye, night blindness and peripheral vision problems. This therapy is not widely practiced but for information contact: College of Syntonic Optometry, 1200 Robeson, Fall River, MA 02720. 508-673-1251
Biofeedback may also help improve visual acuity by retraining the eye muscles to reshape the eye back to a normal shape.
The Bates Method was developed by an ophthalmologist and is a series of exercises designed to eliminate muscle tension in the muscles in and around the eye. The method claims to be able to reduce or eliminate the need for eyeglasses. A book outlining the method is entitled “The Bates Method for Better Eyesight without Glasses” Bates, W. H., New York: Henry Holt and Co./ Owl Books, 1981.
Chinese medicine uses both herbs and acupuncture to treat various eye conditions. Consult a knowledgeable practitioner for information concerning your particular problem.
Ayurvedic medicine is another system of treatment that uses herbs and nutritional supplements to treat eye problems. A knowledgeable practitioner should be consulted.
CranioSacral therapy is an osteopathic technique that gently manipulates the skull bones and sacrum to improve the flow of the cerebrospinal fluid that bathes the brain and spinal cord. It may improve the motor control of the eyes.
Daniel Blodgett MD