What is diabetic macular edema? 5 superfoods to manage DME and improve eyesight

World Diabetes Day, celebrated on November 14 every year, is a day to raise awareness of the impact that diabetes has on the family and support network of those affected. The theme for World Diabetes Day 2018-2019 is ‘The Family and Diabetes’, which seeks to promote the role of the family in the management, care, prevention and education of diabetes. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), more than 425 million people are currently living with diabetes in the world, with most of these cases are type 2 diabetes. India is witnessing a significant rise in the number of diabetics in recent years. As per national statistics, there are over 72 million diabetes patients in India.
Diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes is largely preventable through a combination of regular physical activity, a healthy and balanced diet, and the promotion of healthy living environments. Poor management of diabetes can lead to several health complications, including diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic macular edema (DME) is the most common form of diabetic retinopathy.

What is diabetic macular edema?

Diabetic macular edema is serious and can rob you of your vision. It occurs when the damaged blood vessels swell and leak into the macula of the retina (the light-sensitive area at the back of your eye), causing visibility issues in the normal vision.

On the occasion of World Diabetes Day, leading ophthalmologists from the country are encouraging various positive lifestyle changes alongside effective treatment to manage DME, effectively. “Following a healthy, balanced and nutritional diet boosts good eye health. All vegetables and fruits which are rich in pigments are good for eye health. Diabetic patients can include lutein-rich foods like eggs, corn, kiwi etc to their diet. One should also exercise on a regular basis to maintain a healthy lifestyle to manage their condition better,” an Ophthalmologist.

Superfoods to manage diabetic macular edema and maintain good eyesight

For generations, mothers have advised their children to eat their carrots for the sake of their eyes. Indeed, carrots do contain compounds that are vital to vision. Today’s Gen X moms and others should know that eating for better vision is not just about carrots anymore. Research has shown that certain dietary habits may help manage diabetic macular edema. 

Green Tea

Green tea is truly a miracle beverage that has been reported to delay or prevent many clinical disorders such as cancers, osteoarthritis and cardiovascular diseases. It has been shown that the polyphenol present in green tea helps control blood sugar levels. One study in Japan found that consumption of 6 or more cups of green tea can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a risk factor of diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema. This implies that effective management of diabetes can also help manage DME. 


Vitamin C-rich diet

Evidence suggests vitamin C can help slow the progression of macular degeneration. Foods like berries, oranges, and kiwis aren’t just delicious but an excellent way to ensure that you get enough vitamin C. This water-soluble vitamin and powerful antioxidant in these foods help the body form and maintain connective tissue, including your bones, skin and blood vessels, especially vessels in the eyes.

Vitamin A-rich diet

Vitamin A is essential for good vision. Sweet potatoes are great sources of vitamin A. They contain a carotenoid called beta-carotene, which gives the root vegetable its notable bright orange colour. And beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body, which can help promote eye health. Some other food sources of vitamin A are eggs, carrots and apricots.

Fish

Yes, you read that right! No longer just a great source of protein, fatty fish is an excellent source of vitamin D, which promotes bone health as well as plays a role in immune function and reducing inflammation. In 2016, researchers in Spain found that individuals who consumed at least 500 mg of omega 3 fatty acids per day showed a decreased risk of diabetic retinopathy.

Lutein-rich foods

Dark, leafy greens such as kale, spinach, romaine lettuce, and collard veggies like corns are packed with nutrients, including lutein and zeaxanthin that are beneficial for eye health. Many studies have also shown that lutein and zeaxanthin can help reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases, including AMD and cataracts.

Along with the various lifestyle risks associated with diabetes, it is also important for patients to stay alert in recognising early signs and symptoms of retinal diseases to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.  Perhaps, diabetics are advised to visit an ophthalmologist/retinologist every six months, because they are at a higher risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.

Some common symptoms of DME include blurred or fuzzy or distorted vision, impaired colour vision, decreased contrast or colour sensitivity, dark spots in vision, straight lines appearing wavy or crooked and difficulty seeing at a distance. Early detection of diabetic macular edema increases the possibility of preventing vision loss.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                                                                                                                                                                                             PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/   

FOR INFO ABOUT KNEE REPLACEMENT, YOU CAN VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                                    https:// kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com/                              

FOR CROCHET DESIGNS                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com